Season 2 of 'XO, Kitty' has arrived, taking viewers on another whirlwind romance with the youngest Song Covey sister, Kitty (played by Anna Cathcart). The spinoff from Jenny Han's beloved franchise 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' returns to the Korea Independent School of Seoul—affectionately known as KISS—where Kitty dives headfirst backinto love, drama, and self-discovery.
This season kicks off not long after the cliffhanger finale of Season 1, where Kitty is left to navigate newfound feelings and relationships. Kitty’s previous romantic entanglements leave her at the center of several love triangles, with characters like Yuri (Gia Kim), her ex-boyfriend Dae (Minyeong Choi), and new student Praveena (Sasha Bhasin) vying for her attention. While maintaining the playful energy of its predecessor, Season 2 embraces more serious dilemmas, particularly around family and identity.
Critics have noted how the series digs deep, exploring Kitty’s bisexuality and her personal connection to the culture of Korea, as she learns more about her mother Eve’s past. Marita Kwan, writing for Digital Spy, emphasizes how the series keeps its youthful charm, stating, "XO, Kitty continues to be relatable with its protagonist's imperfections and impulsive decisions." While Kitty frequently finds herself at the helm of messy romantic situations—think wild love triangles and heartfelt reconciliations—she also seeks familial connections and roots, creating poignant storylines.
One standout element of Season 2 is its expanded cast, contributing to the complex tangle of relationships. Kitty’s close friend Quincy “Q” Shabazian (Anthony Keyvan) also finds his own love interest, introducing more plot depth as the series intertwines various character arcs. Reviewers have highlighted how new romantic players inject fresh energy, with Kwan stating, "These characters bring love, trouble, and genuinely hilarious moments to the show, allowing Kitty’s story to breathe alongside their own developments.”
The tension surrounding Kitty and her relationships reaches new heights this season, particularly with Min Ho (Sang Heon Lee), who confronted Kitty about his feelings at the end of the first season. According to coverage by The Capital Evening Show, the pivotal moments include deep conversations and near-kisses, culminating with season finale cliffhangers—a formula sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Even within the romantic chaos, critics observe the series takes time to develop its queer narrative more thoughtfully than many typical teen dramas. David Opie of Radio Times sums it up best: "Now fully integrated from the outset, Kitty’s bisexuality is crafted with nuance, allowing her and the other queer characters to step outside common tropes. The plot avoids making Kitty choose sides and instead portrays her exploration as relatable and messy.”
Comedic moments and melodramatic adventures mark this season of 'XO, Kitty,' juxtaposed with its more serious themes of family heritage and personal struggles. While the series embraces the clash of both American and Korean aesthetics, critics noted inconsistencies—particularly with editing and transitioning between plot points. Anna Cathcart's performance has been recognized as the emotional anchor for the series. Critics agree: she embodies Kitty's charm and chaos seamlessly. Kwan proclaims, "Cathcart remains exceptional, capturing the innocence and complexity of being a teenager caught up between love and family roots.”
The soundtrack of Season 2 serves not only as backdrop music but as part of the storytelling. Featuring K-pop hits from artists like BLACKPINK and Aespa, the music enhances the viewing experience, sweeping audiences back to the vibrant culture of KISS. Critics celebrated this aspect, mentioning how it perfectly captures the vibrant youthfulness of the series and draws viewers even closer to Kitty's world.
Despite the dramatic turns, the heartwarming core of 'XO, Kitty' stays intact. With themes of identity, love, and the power of connection serving as the backbone of the show, viewers find themselves rooting for Kitty as she seeks out her true self amid romantic turbulence. A positive combination of fun, romance, and relatable dilemmas keeps fans hooked, ready for more. The finale promises hope; audiences are left wondering about Kitty's budding romance with Min Ho and excitedly anticipating the potential for Season 3. With several storylines still dangling, viewers are eager for Kitty’s return to KISS, as the promise of new adventures beckons.
XO, Kitty Season 2 is currently available for streaming on Netflix. Fans are now left wishing for Season 3 as the possibilities seem endless, with exhilarating cliffhangers and character developments to explore. The buzz is palpable among audiences eagerly discussing beloved story arcs, stylish outfits, and unanswered questions surrounding the relationships of their favorite chaos queen. Whatever lies next for Kitty, it's safe to say she has captured hearts once again, proving life—and love—at KISS are anything but ordinary.