Crafted by Karl Schaefer and John Hyams, Black Summer stands as an American drama, serving as a spinoff from the Z Nation series. Premiering on Netflix on April 11, 2019, the initial season comprised eight episodes. Subsequently, in November 2019, the network greenlit a second season, which debuted on June 17, 2021, with eight episodes as well. Black Summer, produced by The Asylum, the same company responsible for Z Nation, was predominantly written and directed by John Hyams. The narrative revolves around Rose, portrayed by Jaime King, who grapples with the challenges of a zombie apocalypse while separated from her daughter.
The production of this spinoff commenced on July 23, 2018, unfolding in Calgary, Alberta, with prominent shooting locations including Queen Elizabeth High School, Stampede Park, McMahon Stadium, and beneath The Calgary Tower. Originally slated for a 2020 commencement, shooting for the second season encountered delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What’s the Premise of Black Summer?
The inaugural season introduces a band of survivors in the midst of a zombie apocalypse—Rose, Anna, Sun, and Julius James/Spears. Their struggle for survival unfolds during the earliest and most perilous days of the zombie outbreak. The storyline captures their determination to secure supplies dropped from an overhead airplane. As they navigate divergent paths, each character encounters formidable challenges, fighting for their lives.
Furthermore, the show continually surprises viewers in each episode, maintaining a distinct atmosphere in the second season. While the pacing may be deliberate for some, the creators have made deliberate efforts to infuse a fresh perspective and address critiques.
Who Comprises the Cast of Black Summer?
The primary characters, Rose and her daughter Anna, are portrayed by Jamie King and Zoe Marlett. The ensemble cast includes:
- Kelsey Flower as Lance
- Justine Chu Cary as Spears
- Gwynyth Walsh as Barbara
- Sal Velez Jr. as William
- Edsson Morales as Manny
- Erika Hau as Carmen
- Mustafa Alabssi as Ryan
- Christine Lee as Sun
Black Summer Season 3 Release Status
Despite the second season’s arrival on Netflix in 2021, there is no official confirmation of a renewal. In April 2023, co-creator John Hyams hinted at the absence of a third season, citing a lack of information on the matter. Actress Jamie King expressed excitement about a potential third season in an interview, but it appears that these ideas won’t come to fruition.
In conclusion, it is clear that Black Summer will not be returning for a third season due to insufficient global viewership. Nonetheless, enthusiasts can still enjoy the first two seasons available on Netflix.