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Full Breakdown

Netflix's "Untamed" Season 2 Begins Filming in Hawaii

2/26/2026, 8:30:53 PM

Overview of the Series and Core Event

Netflix's crime drama series "Untamed," created by Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith, is set to return for its second season, shifting its filming location from British Columbia to Hawaii. The series follows Kyle Turner, portrayed by Eric Bana, a special agent for the National Parks Service, as he investigates mysterious deaths within national parks. Season two will focus on a murder investigation in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, where local tensions and the unique landscape play significant roles.

New Additions to the Cast

The second season has expanded its cast with seven new actors. Myra Molloy will portray Addy Hale, the youngest member of a ranch family caught in the investigation. Matthew Keoni Sato plays Kaden Burkart, who works for his father, Ray, played by Shea Whigham. Robbie Magasiva takes on the role of Lt. Ochi, a police lieutenant, while Branscombe Richmond plays Ikua Hale, the patriarch of the Hale Ranch. Moronai Kanekoa will portray Ti Hale, a traditional wrangler, and Joe Tippett plays Casper Kane, a transient character. Additionally, Luciane Buchanan joins as Ku’ulei Pana, a detective with the Hawaii Police Department, leveraging her local connections to aid in the investigation.

Production and Economic Impact

Filming for the new season commenced recently, marked by a traditional blessing attended by Hawaii Governor Josh Green, Eric Bana, and filmmaker John Wells. Governor Green emphasized the positive impact of such productions on Hawaii's film industry, stating that they support local crews and businesses, thereby strengthening the state's creative economy.

Official Statements & Responses

Governor Josh Green remarked, “Productions like this support local crews, small businesses, and working families, strengthening Hawaii’s creative economy from behind the camera to communities statewide.” This statement highlights the broader implications of the series' production on the local economy.

Criticism & Opposition

While the series has garnered attention for its local filming and cast additions, there may be concerns regarding the portrayal of Hawaiian culture and the impact of film productions on local communities. However, specific criticisms were not detailed in the sources.

What's Next

As production progresses, Netflix has not yet announced a release date for the second season. Filming is expected to continue into the spring, with the season consisting of six episodes, similar to the first.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Productions like this support local crews, small businesses, and working families, strengthening Hawaii’s creative economy from behind the camera to communities statewide,” — Josh Green, Governor of Hawaii
  • “She will play Ku’ulei Pana, a detective with the Hawaii police department who has been tasked with taking on the central murder investigation in Untamed season 2, and having grown up on the island, Ku’ulei has connections that will ultimately help Kyle Turner's case at the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.” — Source on Luciane Buchanan's role

The anticipation for "Untamed" Season 2 continues to grow as it embarks on a new chapter in Hawaii, promising to blend thrilling narratives with local culture.