The acclaimed Disney+ period drama A Thousand Blows has launched its highly anticipated second season, bringing with it a major surprise for fans. In a move that few saw coming, a key character whose story appeared conclusively finished at the end of the first series is set for a dramatic comeback.
An Unexpected Resurrection
The hit series, which returned to the streaming platform on 6 January 2026, continues the gripping true story of boxer Hezekiah Moscow (Malachi Kirby), veteran fighter Henry “Sugar” Goodson (Stephen Graham), and the notorious leader of The Forty Elephants, Mary Carr (Erin Doherty). The first season concluded with the core trio parting ways and the tragic death of Hezekiah's best friend, Alec Munroe (Francis Lovehall).
However, the narrative twist causing the most buzz is the return of Mr Lao, portrayed by actor Jason Tobin. In season one, Lao was imprisoned for murdering a Chinese diplomat responsible for destroying his village and killing his family. In a daring plot orchestrated by Mary Carr and Alice Diamond (Darci Shaw), his death was faked to save him from execution. He was given a new identity and shipped off to Liverpool to begin a new life, seemingly closing his chapter in the story.
Jason Tobin on the 'Incredible' Full Circle Moment
Speaking exclusively at the London premiere for the new season, Tobin expressed his delight at rejoining the cast. "In season two, I wanted to see how does he [Mr Lao] recover from the absolute devastation and aftermath of season one," the actor revealed. "And why wouldn’t I come back? This is the most incredible team to work with."
Tobin, who holds a British passport but grew up in Hong Kong and built his career in America, described working on A Thousand Blows as a profound personal milestone. "So A Thousand Blows was my first British production and it’s come full circle, because the UK is where I first fell in love with acting when I was a little boy," he shared. "It’s a crazy big circle of my life that I’m back here doing this."
New Faces Join the Fray
The new season not only welcomes back familiar characters but also introduces several key new figures to the ensemble. Joining the cast are Catherine McCormack (Braveheart) as the formidable Sophie Lyons and Ned Dennehy (Peaky Blinders) as the intimidating Bull Jeremy. Their arrival promises to add fresh layers of conflict and intrigue to the already complex world of 1880s London.
With its compelling blend of historical fact and dramatic fiction, A Thousand Blows season two is now available to stream in its entirety on Disney+.
