The Night Agent took fans by surprise when most of the cast did not return for season 2—but following an unexpected turn of events, one familiar face is set to make a comeback in the near future.
Fola Evans-Akingbola, who portrays Chelsea Arrington, is officially returning for season 3 after being largely absent from the latest installment.
Series creator Shawn Ryan confirmed the news after season 2 only featured returning stars Gabriel Basso and Luciane Buchanan, while much of the supporting cast did not reappear.
Kari Matchett made a brief cameo as President Michelle Travers in the season 2 premiere, while Evans-Akingbola’s Chelsea had a short appearance in the finale, which aired on Thursday, January 23.
“I don’t view this the way many TV shows operate, in that I think characters can leave, return, and come back again depending on the story we’re telling that season,” Ryan explained on Friday, January 24, while discussing Evans-Akingbola’s future in the series.
“A good example of this is Chelsea, a character we really loved in season 1, played by Fola Evans-Akingbola.”
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Ryan reflected on the difficult conversation he had with Evans-Akingbola, 30, regarding her absence from season 2.
“It was really tough for me to call her between seasons 1 and 2 and say, ‘Hey, the writers have been at work for a few weeks, and we’re leaning toward storylines where I don’t see a role for you this time,’” he recalled.
“‘The direction of the story has taken us here, and I’m truly sorry, but we love you. If there’s ever an opportunity to bring you back, I’d love to make it happen.’ She was incredibly gracious about it.”
At this time, it remains unclear whether Evans-Akingbola will return as a recurring character or a series regular.
“As we approached the end of season 2, we found an opportunity to bring her back for a brief cameo, which will serve as a launching point,” Ryan teased. “And I can confirm that she will be part of season 3.”
The Night Agent Season 3 (Photo: Netflix)
The Night Agent Season 3 Will Feature Major Return After Season 2 Absence
Based on Matthew Quirk’s novel of the same name, The Night Agent follows FBI agent Peter (Basso) as he finds himself entangled in a massive conspiracy involving a mole within the highest levels of the U.S. government.
The action thriller became Netflix’s third-most-viewed debut series within its first four days, leading to a renewal just one week after its premiere. Ahead of the second season’s release, Netflix greenlit a third installment.
Earlier this month, Basso, 30, opened up about his dedication to the role, revealing that he insisted on performing all his own stunts.
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“I think people sometimes misunderstand that decision, as if I do it just to prove something—but that’s not the case at all,” Basso explained during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. “For me, it’s about immersing the audience in the experience.”
Basso emphasized his desire to make the action sequences feel as authentic as possible.
“I don’t want viewers to be pulled out of the moment when I’m about to take a hit, get thrown, or slammed on my back,” he added. “That feels dishonest. I love acting—I don’t love pretending.”
He continued, “People connect with Peter, and watching him take those hits matters. If that means getting slammed into a wall, so be it. It’s not the end of the world.”
The Night Agent is currently streaming on Netflix.
