The Night Agent took fans by surprise when season 2 introduced an almost entirely new cast. However, in an unexpected turn of events, one familiar face is set to make a return in the near future.
Fola Evans-Akingbola, known for her role as Chelsea Arrington, will be back for season 3 after being absent from most of the latest season. Series creator Shawn Ryan confirmed her return following a season in which only lead actors Gabriel Basso and Luciane Buchanan reprised their roles, while the majority of the supporting cast was left out.
Kari Matchett made a brief appearance as President Michelle Travers in the season 2 premiere, while Evans-Akingbola’s Chelsea had a short but notable cameo in the finale, which aired on Thursday, January 23.
“I don’t view this show the way many other TV series operate. Characters may leave, return, and reappear depending on where the story takes us each season,” Ryan told Deadline on Friday, January 24, while discussing Evans-Akingbola’s future on the show. “One example I can give is how much we loved Chelsea in season 1, as played by Fola Evans-Akingbola.”
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Ryan also recalled the difficult conversation he had with Evans-Akingbola, 30, when he informed her that she wouldn’t be part of season 2.
“It really pained me to call her between seasons 1 and 2 and say, ‘Hey, the writers have been working for a few weeks, and the direction we’re taking the story doesn’t leave much room for your character,’” he explained. “‘The storyline has taken us here, and I’m truly sorry. We love you, and if there’s an opportunity to bring you back, I would absolutely love to do so.’ She handled it wonderfully.”
Fola Evans Akingbola (Photo: Disney)It remains uncertain whether Evans-Akingbola will return as a recurring character or as a series regular.
“As we reached the end of season 2, we found an opportunity to give her a brief cameo that serves as a stepping stone,” Ryan hinted. “And I can confirm that she will be part of season 3.”
The Night Agent Season 3 to Feature Major Return After Season 2 Absence
Adapted from Matthew Quirk’s novel of the same name, The Night Agent follows FBI agent Peter Sutherland (Basso) as he becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy involving a mole operating at the highest levels of the U.S. government.
The series quickly became Netflix’s third-most-watched debut series within its first four days, earning a renewal just one week after its premiere. Even before season 2’s debut, Netflix had already greenlit a third season.
Earlier this month, Basso, 30, reflected on his dedication to the role and his decision to perform all of his own stunts.
“I think people sometimes misunderstand my reasoning for doing my own stunts, like it’s just to prove something—but that’s not the case,” he said during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. “For me, it’s all about audience immersion.”
Basso emphasized that he wanted viewers to fully believe in his performance.
“I don’t want audiences watching the show and then, just as I’m about to take a hit, get flipped, or slammed onto my back, they realize it’s a stunt double. That feels like a lie. I love acting—I just don’t like lying.”
He added, “People like Peter, and watching him take those hits matters. If that means I have to get thrown into a wall, then so be it. It’s not the end of the world.”
The Night Agent is currently streaming on Netflix.