The Empress season 2: Full list of cast explored

The Empress season 2 is scheduled to premiere on November 22, 2024, continuing the story of Elisabeth von Wittelsbach (Sisi) as she faces the challenges of love, duty, and political intrigue in the Habsburg court. Devrim Lingnau returns as Sisi, bringing another powerful performance as the young empress.

Philip Froissant also returns as Emperor Franz Joseph I, the steadfast yet conflicted ruler, while Melika Foroutan resumes her role as the formidable Archduchess Sophie, whose rigid adherence to tradition often places her at odds with Elisabeth.

Alongside these familiar faces, Johannes Nussbaum will be back as Archduke Maximilian, Franz’s ambitious and rebellious brother. Almila Bagriacik returns as the loyal Countess Leontine von Apafi, and Jördis Triebel reprises her role as Duchess Ludovika, Elisabeth’s wise and protective mother.

Who stars in The Empress season 2?

1) Devrim Lingnau as Empress Elisabeth von Wittelsbach

Devrim Lingnau reprises her role as Elisabeth von Wittelsbach, the central figure of the series. In season 1, Lingnau skillfully portrayed Elisabeth’s transformation from a free-spirited Bavarian duchess to the reluctant Empress of Austria, burdened by the expectations of the Habsburg monarchy.

Devrim Lingnau, known for Auerhaus and All You Need, showcases her versatility and emotional depth in The Empress season 2. Elisabeth faces heightened challenges as political tensions grow and her personal struggles deepen.

2) Philip Froissant as Emperor Franz Joseph I

Philip Froissant returns as Emperor Franz Joseph I, the stoic yet conflicted ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Season 1 explored Franz’s dual role as a husband and emperor, often highlighting the tension between his personal desires and his political obligations.

In season 2, Franz Joseph’s journey becomes even more intricate as he grapples with increasing unrest within his empire and the evolving dynamics of his marriage to Elisabeth.

Froissant gained recognition for his role in the thriller Black Island.

3) Melika Foroutan as Archduchess Sophie

Melika Foroutan once again embodies the formidable Archduchess Sophie, Emperor Franz Joseph’s mother and a staunch defender of Habsburg traditions. In season 1, Sophie often clashed with Elisabeth over her perceived inadequacies, serving as a formidable antagonist in the young empress’s life.

In season 2, Sophie’s influence over court politics and her strained relationship with Elisabeth is likely to take center stage. Foroutan, known for her work in Tribes of Europa and Mediterranea, excels at portraying characters with sharp intelligence and unyielding resolve.

4) Johannes Nussbaum as Archduke Maximilian

Johannes Nussbaum returns as Archduke Maximilian, Emperor Franz Joseph’s ambitious and often rebellious younger brother. In season 1, Maximilian’s charm and wit were juxtaposed with his growing resentment of living in his brother’s shadow.

An accomplished actor in German cinema and television, Nussbaum has appeared in productions like Vienna Blood and Tatort. In The Empress season 2, Maximilian’s character arc is expected to expand as he continues to challenge the status quo, potentially causing further turmoil within the Habsburg family.

5) Almila Bagriacik as Countess Leontine von Apafi

Almila Bagriacik reprises her role as Countess Leontine von Apafi, a loyal confidante and ally to Elisabeth. In season 1, Leontine’s intelligence and resourcefulness proved invaluable to the empress, particularly as she navigated the treacherous dynamics of the Habsburg court.

Bagriacik, known for her work in 4 Blocks and Tatort, excels at portraying resilient and multifaceted characters. In season 2, Leontine is expected to play an even more significant role as Elisabeth faces mounting pressures from within and outside the court.

6) Jördis Triebel as Duchess Ludovika

Jördis Triebel returns as Duchess Ludovika, Elisabeth’s practical and protective mother. In season 1, Ludovika served as a grounding force in Elisabeth’s life, offering wisdom and support as her daughter adjusted to her new role.

Triebel, widely recognized for her work in Dark and One Breath, brings a natural authenticity to her roles. In The Empress season 2, Ludovika’s influence on Elisabeth will likely grow as the empress confronts increasing challenges.

New additions to the cast of The Empress season 2

The Empress season 2 introduces exciting new characters, including Josephine Thiesen as Princess Marie Charlotte of Belgium and Christophe Favre as Napoleon III. Thiesen’s portrayal of Marie Charlotte is expected to bring fresh intrigue to the series, as the young Belgian princess’s presence may disrupt court dynamics.

Meanwhile, Favre’s Napoleon III adds a geopolitical dimension to the story, potentially complicating Austria’s position on the European stage.

What is The Empress season 2 about?

The Empress season 2 is a German-language historical drama that explores the life of Elisabeth von Wittelsbach, one of Europe’s most enigmatic and celebrated figures. Set in the mid-19th century, the series delves into Elisabeth’s journey from a spirited Bavarian duchess to the reluctant Empress of Austria. The show masterfully blends personal drama with political intrigue, offering a richly textured portrayal of royal life.

Season 1 captivated audiences with its exploration of Elisabeth’s relationships, her struggles with court traditions, and the growing tensions within the Habsburg empire.

Fans can look forward to the premiere of The Empress season 2 on November 22, 2024.

Edited by Divya Singh