Nicole Kidman Returns in 'Nine Perfect Strangers' Season 2: A New Chapter in the Alps

The highly anticipated second season of Nine Perfect Strangers premiered on May 21, 2025, on Hulu in the U.S., with international viewers gaining access via Prime Video on May 22. This new season takes a dramatic turn, shifting from the sunny California wellness retreat to a mysterious sanctuary nestled deep in the Austrian Alps, known as Zauberwald.

A Fresh Ensemble Cast

Nicole Kidman reprises her role as the enigmatic Masha Dmitrichenko, leading a fresh group of troubled guests looking for healing and transformation. The new cast includes:

Murray Bartlett as Brian, a disgraced children’s TV host looking for redemption.

Annie Murphy as Imogen, attending the retreat with her emotionally distant mother, Victoria, played by Christine Baranski.

Henry Golding as Peter, who’s facing deep familial tensions.

Dolly de Leon as Sister Agnes, a nun with a murky past.

Maisie Richardson-Sellers and King Princess as Wolfie and Tina, a musical couple on the verge of a breakup.

Mark Strong as David, a powerful figure connected to Masha’s past.

Lena Olin as Helena, the retreat’s owner and Masha’s former mentor.

New Setting, Deeper Mysteries

This season’s shift to Zauberwald introduces a new layer of intrigue. Masha now uses an experimental device—tested only on rats and herself—that enables participants to relive key moments in their lives. Her belief in the technology’s healing potential clashes with the doubts of Helena and Martin, her business partners.

While the snowy, tranquil retreat offers physical peace, the emotional and psychological challenges faced by each guest form the real heart of the series. Masha’s methods remain controversial, possibly involving the use of hallucinogens as a therapeutic aid.

Critical Reception

Initial reviews suggest Season 2 is stronger than the first, with more grounded characters and emotionally resonant performances. Nicole Kidman’s portrayal of Masha continues to be a polarizing but compelling centerpiece. Critics praise the show’s exploration of trauma, healing, and personal growth within a surreal yet beautiful setting.

Where to Watch

Nine Perfect Strangers Season 2 is currently streaming on Hulu in the U.S. and on Prime Video internationally. The first two episodes are available now, with new episodes releasing weekly.