“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” returned for its second season with a faithful and compelling adaptation of “The Sea of Monsters,” the second novel in Rick Riordan’s beloved mythic book series.
After a two-year hiatus, the Disney+ series released the finale episode of season two this Wednesday, bringing another chapter in Percy Jackson’s story to a close.
Season two follows Percy (Walker Scobell) and Annabeth (Leah Jeffries) on a journey to rescue their friend Grover (Aryan Simhadri) from the Sea of Monsters after his quest goes wrong, while also working to save Camp Half-Blood. The camp is placed in danger when Thalia’s pine tree, the enchanted barrier that protects the camp, is poisoned by Luke (Charlie Bushnell), a former Camp Half-Blood camper who betrayed Percy in the previous season.
After 2010’s “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief“ and its 2013 follow-up, “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters,” movie adaptations which were both criticized for being unfaithful to Riordan’s work, some fans were understandably skeptical about another adaptation, this time as a TV series.
The show set out to change that, with season one succeeding in that cause and winning over many viewers with its clear dedication to the books. Season two is no different, building on what the first season established and developing deeper, more complex characters.
An aspect of the show that truly shined this season was the costuming. Throughout the season, the series presents a range of standout looks. From the functional battle armor worn during the chariot race in episode two to the stunning mythical Greek get-ups worn by Annabeth and Percy in episode five, the show remains clearly dedicated to the details.
That attention to detail in the costumes enhances the show’s visual storytelling, helping distinguish each setting while reinforcing the overall whimsical tone of the series. Paired with special effects, the costumes draw viewers more fully into the world of demigods and monsters, making the mythology feel vivid and immersive.
I also noticed that the characters felt more lived in this season, their relationships were more natural and layered, shaped by shared experiences from the first season. Moments of conflict, humor and vulnerability are given more room to breathe, allowing the characters to feel more genuine and closer to their book counterparts.
I enjoyed watching Percy’s relationships develop throughout the series. This season introduces several new storylines and characters, including Percy’s half-Cyclops brother, Tyson (Daniel Diemer). The dynamic between Percy and Tyson brings much of the humor from the novel to life, and Diemer’s performance adds a lot of heart to their bond.
But my favorite relationship in the series has to be the one between Annabeth and Percy. Both actors built on their characters’ connection this season with a slow, believable progression that feels true to the books, and sparks interest for the possible idea of the ship “Percabeth.” Their chemistry is grounded in friendship and trust, which makes their bond even more enjoyable to watch. Both actors have portrayed the relationship in a way that keeps audiences on their toes bringing them back for more of the two.
Jeffries’ performance as Annabeth is extremely impressive, especially considering how young she is. She conveys Annabeth’s intelligence and emotional depth through subtle facial expressions, sharp remarks, and controlled vulnerability. And her portrayal captures everything I imagined Annabeth to be when I first read the books as a child.
Even though the adaptation isn’t flawless, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” brings back the same warmth and excitement that made the books unforgettable. The Disney+ series is rooted in strong performances, compelling plot lines and impressive physical and special effects that really help bring the world of Percy Jackson to life. Most of all, season two continues with an adaptation that stays faithfully focused on the story’s strongest theme, friendship.
Season three has been confirmed by Disney+ and is already in production looking at a late 2026 release date. As the series continues, it will be exciting to watch the characters develop and see how the story evolves.
