HBO is keeping Sharon Horgan’s “Youth” in session, handing the comedy series a Season 2 order while its eight-episode first season continues streaming on HBO Max.

The renewal gives Horgan another round as Alex, a 50-year-old divorcee attempting to manage relationships, a troubled son who is struggling to settle into his new college, and the needs of her ailing parents.

Horgan, a Peabody and BAFTA winner, also writes and executive produces the series. She leads an ensemble that includes Rupert Friend as Patrick, Sharlene Whyte as Sam, Aran Murphy as Ruari and Robbie Gee as Frank.

In a statement responding to the renewal, Horgan brought the same candid humor that defines the show’s premise.

“I’m so happy to get another opportunity to live out my emotional and biological crises on HBO,” Horgan said. “I can’t think of a better platform to air my UTI problems on. The response to ‘Youth’ has been beyond what I could have hoped for. I’m so grateful for the response and the chance to work with this incredible cast and creative team once more.”

A Strong Start for “Youth”

HBO says “Youth” is among its five biggest comedy launches globally. The series has also earned a 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes, adding a strong critical showing to the network’s performance claim.

Reviews have highlighted Horgan’s work both in front of and behind the camera. Variety praised her “magnetic screen presence” and called her “a sharp comic writer.”

Amy Gravitt, executive vice president of HBO Programming and head of HBO and HBO Max comedy series, said the show’s ability to move between comedy and emotion helped distinguish its first season.

“In a way that only she can, Sharon has created a show that makes us howl with laughter and with tears — often in the same moment,” Gravitt said. “Each performance in ‘Youth’ is more delightful than the next. Along with our partners at Merman, we are so thrilled to have this brilliant ensemble back for another season.”

Merman, which is also behind “Amandaland,” “Bad Sisters” and “Vladimir,” produces the series. Horgan executive produces alongside Faye Dorn for Merman, Jim Kleverweis and Dawn Shadforth. Shadforth also directs.

ShowBiz Take

The Season 2 pickup matters because HBO is backing “Youth” with both measurable performance and critical response behind it. The network’s claim that the series ranks among its top five global comedy launches gives the renewal a clear business foundation, while its 97% Rotten Tomatoes score points to substantial critical approval.

Just as importantly, the order preserves Horgan’s central creative role. She is not only the star but also the writer and an executive producer, making Alex’s personal upheavals closely tied to Horgan’s comic voice. Her renewal statement suggests that the series will continue confronting uncomfortable physical and emotional territory with candor rather than restraint.

HBO’s announcement also places the ensemble at the heart of the show’s return. Gravitt praised the performances across the series, while Horgan expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reunite with the cast and creative team.

What Happens Next?

“Youth” will return for a second season on HBO, extending Alex’s story beyond the first season’s eight episodes. For now, viewers can stream the complete first season on HBO Max.