Having grown up reading the “Percy Jackson” books, hearing that this world would get a more faithful TV adaptation was an exciting surprise back in 2020. One of my core memories of this universe is a teacher reading "The Lightning Thief" aloud during my early school years, followed by a school trip to watch the first movie adaptation in theaters (controversial, I know).
But over the years, I’ve come to realize that the movies earned their bad reputation for a reason: They weren’t faithful to the source material whatsoever. That’s why I admired the first season of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” so much, because it honors the rich world Rick Riordan first created. Now, with the second season finally here, I’m even more excited, especially because the second book, "The Sea of Monsters," has always been my personal favorite.
“Percy Jackson” season 2, in simple words, is a grander, funnier, and more epic adventure. I’ve already seen the first four episodes, and I know that long-time fans will appreciate how much care and attention have gone into putting this next big quest on the small screen. Now available to stream on Disney Plus, here’s why it’s worth joining Percy and the gang on their latest adventure.
I grew up reading the "Percy Jackson" books, so this world has always meant a lot to me. Getting to watch season 2 early and share my honest thoughts on the adventures and monsters is such a thrill.
‘Percy Jackson’ season 2 feels like a cinematic journey
Adapting books can be a very challenging feat, especially when the pages require your imagination to run wild. Riordan clearly created a world that each reader may picture differently, so translating that into a TV show can seem almost impossible. Yet the first season of “Percy Jackson” proved it can be done when you stay faithful to the core moments in the books and have a cast that knows their characters inside and out. That’s why season 2 works just as well, if not better than season 1.
“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” season 2 takes place about a year after the events of season 1, now adapting the second book, "The Sea of Monsters." Episode 1 kicks off with Grover (Aryan Simhadri) on a mission to find Pan in a mysterious, otherworldly forest. During his search, he discovers an artifact known as the Golden Fleece, a powerful object that becomes the catalyst for this season’s story.
Meanwhile, over the course of the school year, Percy (Walker Scobell) has kept in touch with Grover and Annabeth (Leah Jeffries) and befriends a new student at home named Tyson (Daniel Diemer), who turns out to be his half-brother.
From there, we return to Camp Half-Blood, only to discover that Thalia’s tree (the magical barrier protecting the camp) has been poisoned. This leaves our heroes no time for catching up or enjoying typical camp activities, as a new quest quickly takes shape: Retrieve the Golden Fleece to heal the tree and rescue Grover, who has been kidnapped.
Because the story centers on the group’s journey through the Sea of Monsters to reach the island, the stakes are much higher. This translates into more action and a slightly more mature form of storytelling, as the heroes face serious threats like fire‑throwing giants and sirens. At the same time, the season feels grander than the first. The creators clearly excel in the visuals department since the special effects are more developed than in season 1 and look impressively authentic.
Book fans will also be pleased to know that season 2 is establishing the connection between Percy and Annabeth even more, which is important considering they eventually go beyond friendship in later books. It’s a natural development and one that feels genuine because both Scobell and Jeffries have such charming chemistry.
Season 2 does have a noticeable flaw, though, and it’s the exposition-heavy dialogue, a problem that season 1 also struggled with. At times, characters say things that feel unnatural, seemingly just to explain the story to the audience, which can make the pacing feel like a jump from one big event to the next. Still, given the expansive and richly imagined world, it’s largely forgivable. Even so, the season remains a fun and engaging watch, clearly reflecting the effort and care put into bringing Riordan’s universe to life.
Verdict: ‘Percy Jackson’ season 2 is more epic
Even in these first four episodes, “Percy Jackson” season 2 proves that the series has found a structure capable of carrying the rest of the novel adaptations. After two seasons, Walker Scobell, Leah Jeffries, and Aryan Simhadri have grown into their roles, bringing charisma and a deep understanding of their characters that allows them to carry the story. Equally important is the bond and friendship between the trio, which makes each character relatable and engaging for audiences.
It's safe to say that fans of the books and the first season will find plenty to enjoy here. Beyond the mythology, the story itself remains engaging, packed with memorable moments and characters who are a joy to watch. The inclusion of Tyson and Clarisse (Dior Goodjohn) in the main storyline adds fresh dynamics and interesting new character beats as well, giving the season a much more chaotic energy.
Overall, season 2 is grander in scale, with bigger stakes, wilder adventures, and more epic moments than before. It only makes me even more excited to see what future seasons have in store.
Stream the first 2 episodes of "Percy Jackson" season 2 on Disney Plus now.
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