Will there be a Season 2 of Doctor Odyssey? Here's what we know so far

Will there be a second season 2 of Doctor Odyssey? Well, that’s the big question right now, and the truth is, we still don’t have a clear answer. ABC hasn’t confirmed a renewal or a cancellation, leaving fans floating between hope and uncertainty.

The show kicked off with strong numbers and plenty of buzz back in September 2024, but a drop in viewership and high production costs seem to have complicated things. Even so, there’s reason to stay optimistic: creative discussions are reportedly ongoing, and both cast and creators have hinted they’re open and eager for another voyage.

If you’ve been watching, you already know why people are invested. Doctor Odyssey isn’t just another medical drama, it’s set on a cruise ship, which instantly gives it a unique atmosphere. It blends emergency medicine with emotional storylines about people trying to heal and connect in a high-pressure, isolated setting.

At the heart of it is Dr. Max Bankman, played by Joshua Jackson, a brilliant doctor with a complicated past, hoping the sea might offer redemption. But even in the middle of the ocean, it’s hard to outrun your ghosts.

Life, love, and medicine at sea

Max isn’t the only one with emotional baggage. He works closely with Avery Morgan, a sharp and caring nurse practitioner played by Phillipa Soo, yes, the same from Hamilton. Their dynamic deepens with Tristan Silva (Sean Teale), a nurse quietly nursing feelings for Avery. And then there’s Captain Massey (Don Johnson), firm yet compassionate, grounding the crew with his experience.

What really makes the show work is how personal it feels. Sure, there are dramatic emergencies, but the heart of the series is watching these characters face grief, connection, and change, all while trying not to rock the boat, literally and figuratively.

From teen heartthrobs to award-winning performances

The casting is a big win. Joshua Jackson, remembered from Dawson’s Creek and Fringe, brings a grounded energy to Max. He’s convincing as a man good at his job but unable to heal himself.

Phillipa Soo, with her musical theater roots, offers elegance and emotional depth. Sean Teale, known for Skins and Reign, adds quiet tension to the triangle. And Don Johnson? The man’s a legend. From Miami Vice to Nash Bridges, he brings a presence that anchors the show.

A Ryan Murphy production, but not what you’d expect

Seeing Ryan Murphy’s name might make you expect the unexpected. He’s the mind behind Glee, American Horror Story, Pose, and 9-1-1, after all. But with Doctor Odyssey, Murphy takes a more restrained and character-focused approach.

Collaborating with Baitz (Brothers & Sisters) and Baken, Murphy builds something intimate, even with a grand setting. The drama feels rooted in real emotion, not just plot twists.

Familiar vibes with a twist

Some viewers have compared Doctor Odyssey to The Love Boat, but there’s more at stake here than romance and guest stars. The show even had a crossover moment with 9-1-1, bringing Angela Bassett onboard as Athena Grant-Nash, an exciting touch for fans of both worlds.

Big names, bold cameos

Guest stars have added charm and surprise. Shania Twain appeared as Heather, a widow who bonds with the captain. John Stamos played Massey’s troubled brother, adding drama and nostalgia in one go.

We also saw Kelsea Ballerini as a bride-to-be and cameos from Charlotte Lawrence, Ava Phillippe, and Paris Jackson, adding a fresh, diverse energy to the mix.

So… will it return?

That’s still uncertain. The premiere drew 16.5 million viewers, but the numbers dipped to around 3.5 million per episode. Add the high production costs and Murphy’s busy schedule, and it’s clear why ABC hasn’t rushed a decision.

Still, there’s hope. ABC exec Craig Erwich says conversations with Murphy are creative and optimistic. Joshua Jackson has also said he’s ready to return.

New episodes continue to air on Thursdays at 9 PM on ABC, and stream on Hulu the next day. Whether the season finale becomes the series finale remains to be seen.

Final thoughts

Doctor Odyssey surprised a lot of people. It could’ve been flashy and shallow, but instead, it chose to explore real characters and emotional depth set against an unpredictable, open-sea backdrop. Whether ABC gives it another shot or not, it’s already shown there’s room for something different in medical dramas.

And if the ship sets sail again? We’ll be there, life jackets and all.