BBC Three's hit dating series I Kissed a Girl is back with its second season, delivering what may be its most compelling episodes yet—even as the show faces cancellation. The new season premieres tonight with a 10-episode run that promises more drama, self-discovery, and emotional moments than its predecessor.
New Season Brings More Drama and Heart
The first three episodes of season 2 showcase a messier and more explosive dynamic among the contestants. Set in an Italian villa known as the Masseria—affectionately dubbed the 'mazzy' by narrator Charley Marlowe—the season kicks off with a drama-filled dinner, partner-swapping, and new bombshells that shake up the group. Marlowe's personality shines even more this season, giving the show its distinctive character and positioning it as essential viewing for the LGBTQ+ community.
Educational Moments and Stereotype-Busting
The new season offers opportunities for education and breaking stereotypes. Contestant Elisha playfully suggests that love interest Elise might be part of the 'messy mascs' trope (masculine-presenting lesbians), while Renee reminds audiences that masc girls cry too. After an emotional few days, the self-professed 'North-West London Baddie' shows her vulnerable side, tearfully explaining that many masculine women don't receive the same grace as others. 'I'm just a really emotional woman as well,' she says.
Self-Discovery and Connection
These moments of self-discovery—like when Elisha realizes she's not just into femme girls and Elise begins to see herself as an identity separate from her sexual identity—are what make the show a privilege to watch. It sets itself apart from shows like Love Island, which can be addictive but less stimulating or explorative. The series continues to cement itself in queer pop culture history while showing young girls that it's okay—and fun—to be gay.
Format Tweaks and First Kiss Ratings
Season 2 introduces small format changes, including a chemistry rating system after the first kisses. Upon arrival, the girls—partnered up by host Dannii Minogue—kiss before any small talk, then rate the chemistry from one to 10. The answers force self-reflection and honesty from the start, which is crucial given their limited time in this queer utopia. Couples are then ordered by their ratings, sparking conversations about whose heads might be turned.
Host and Narrator Shine
Dannii Minogue brings energy, empathy, and genuine investment as host, interacting with the cast in a heartwarming way. Charley Marlowe's narration adds distinctive character, with references like Jane McDonald and Mighty Hoopla within the first five minutes. Since the franchise began in 2023, I Kissed a Boy and I Kissed a Girl have delivered iconic characters, hilarious one-liners, and pure joyful scenes.
Cancellation a Tragedy
Despite the show's success, it was recently axed by the BBC, making this season a bittersweet farewell. 'It feels like an injustice to say arrivederci to what is such a seismic show,' the review notes. The show's ability to balance entertainment with meaningful representation makes its cancellation a loss for queer visibility on television.
I Kissed a Girl season 2, episodes 1-4 are available on BBC iPlayer, with new episodes dropping Tuesdays.
