Cheer Returns for Season 2 and Faces Unprecedented Challenges

To say the world changed since the last time audiences saw the Navarro College cheer team vying for the nationals in season 1 of the Netflix hit sports series Cheer would be a massive understatement. It was pre-pandemic and before its breakout star, Jerry Harris, was indicted on child pornography charges and for allegedly exploiting and abusing underage boys (charges which Harris has pleaded not guilty to while he awaits trial).

Today, the Emmy-winning series returns for season 2 and it's not going to shy away from any of it -- including the accusations that have been levied at Harris.

"It felt very much as though I were covering the death of a friend," director Greg Whiteley told Entertainment Weekly, as season 2 will address the impact the arrest had on Harris's teammates and coaches, and the alleged victims. "When something like that comes to light, it just feels as though this person you thought you knew is now dead. It was just unbelievably sad. And then you add on top of this, getting to know the twins [who accused Harris of abusing them] and how their lives were impacted by these events. It's awful."

While Harris's case looms large over the team, it's not the only challenge facing the Bulldogs as they continue to fight to stay on top. The first season was a huge hit for Netflix and catapulted its cast into the public eye. The new season will address the impact of that newfound fame. The pandemic, like in all other areas of life, has presented new challenges for the squad, but as with every other hurdle, head Monica Aldama isn't going to let it stand in the way of achieving excellence. And she's not alone, as this season introduces Navarro's main rival, Trinity Valley Community College, with its own head coach, Vontae Johnson, who's every bit as driven to be the best. A combo that is sure to make for some riveting television.

Season 2 of Cheer premieres today on Netflix. Watch the trailer below.