Key Facts
Julianne Nicholson is set to appear in Season 2 of HBO's detective drama Task, reprising her Emmy-winning role as Lori Ross from Mare of Easttown. The casting news, reported by Variety, directly connects the two series created by Brad Ingelsby, both set in Philadelphia's working-class suburbs.
Details of the Casting
Nicholson will reprise her character Lori Ross, who was Mare Sheehan's best friend in Mare of Easttown. In that series, Lori's son became involved in a murder investigation. Details about how Lori will be introduced into Task have not been revealed.
Nicholson is a two-time Emmy winner, having won for her role in Mare of Easttown and for a guest-starring role on HBO's Hacks. Her recent credits include Paradise, Dope Girls, Winning Time: Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, The Outsider, and films like August: Osage County and I, Tonya.
Task Season 2 Cast and Plot
Season 2 follows Tom Brandis (Mark Ruffalo) as he leads a new task force, with the logline stating he "takes the helm of a new task force, but the deeper the operation runs, the harder it is to tell who's the target."
Other new cast members include:
- Edgar Ramirez as Miguel Contreras, a DEA second-in-command torn between duty and guilt.
- Mahershala Ali as Eddie Barnes, a respected DEA agent whose team conflicts with Tom's unit.
- Harry Melling, Adam Nagaitis, and Aminah Nieves in undisclosed roles.
Season 1 of Task premiered in September 2025 with seven episodes. The series was renewed for a second season in November 2025, with Ruffalo and Ingelsby returning. A premiere date for Season 2 has not been announced.
Impact and What Readers Should Know
This crossover strengthens the shared universe of Brad Ingelsby's Philadelphia-set dramas. Fans of Mare of Easttown can expect familiar faces and interconnected storylines. Nicholson's addition brings award-winning talent to an already stellar cast.
FAQ
Who is joining Task Season 2?
Julianne Nicholson has been cast in Task Season 2, reprising her role as Lori Ross from Mare of Easttown.
How does this connect Task and Mare of Easttown?
Both series are created by Brad Ingelsby and set in Philadelphia's suburbs. Nicholson's character crossover directly links the two shows.
When will Task Season 2 premiere?
A premiere date has not yet been announced. Season 1 debuted in September 2025.