Introduction
The action-packed thriller The Old Man is making waves again, capturing the attention of TV fans and critics alike. With a surge in online traffic (10,000+ searches), the FX series is trending for several reasons, including its Season 2 release and its strong performances by veteran actors Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow. However, while the show has garnered significant attention, with some praising its riveting action sequences, others are divided on its pacing and storytelling approach. In this article, we’ll explore why The Old Man is currently trending, provide context for new viewers, and dive into the latest critical responses to the show's second season.
What Is The Old Man?
The Old Man is a television series that originally debuted on FX and follows the story of Dan Chase, a former CIA operative played by Jeff Bridges. Having been off the grid for decades, Chase finds himself dragged back into the world of espionage and danger when his past catches up with him. The show blends action, drama, and suspense, all while centering on themes of aging, betrayal, and survival.
The series is based on the 2017 novel of the same name by Thomas Perry and features a stellar cast, including John Lithgow, who plays Harold Harper, an FBI official with a complex relationship to Chase. Season 1 was well-received for its gripping fight sequences, intense drama, and strong performances, particularly from Bridges, who adds emotional depth to his portrayal of an aging spy. However, as Season 2 begins to unfold, opinions are becoming more divided.
Why Is The Old Man Trending?
The release of The Old Man Season 2 is the key reason why the show is currently trending. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the return of the series after a successful first season, and news outlets have been buzzing with reviews and reactions to the new episodes. According to a review from The A.V. Club, while the series still delivers in terms of brutal fight sequences, the second season has faced some criticism for its slower pacing. The review suggests that the story “takes too long to get going” and feels “fattier” compared to the more streamlined first season.
Despite these critiques, the show has maintained its place as a must-watch series. As noted by the Toronto Sun, The Old Man remains one of the top TV recommendations this week. This is largely due to the star power of Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow, whose performances continue to captivate audiences. Their dynamic onscreen relationship, along with the show's mix of psychological tension and physical action, is a major draw for viewers.
Season 2: Early Reactions and Criticism
While the initial excitement for Season 2 of The Old Man is palpable, some early reviews have pointed out issues with the pacing and narrative structure. The A.V. Club review mentions that, in contrast to the tightly plotted first season, the second season feels slower and more drawn out. The review notes that while fans of the show will still appreciate the well-choreographed fight scenes and engaging performances, the story could benefit from trimming some of its excess plot threads.
Despite the pacing concerns, the show’s action sequences remain a highlight. Jeff Bridges, even at 73, delivers physically demanding performances that continue to impress. The visceral fight scenes add a layer of gritty realism that sets The Old Man apart from other spy thrillers. However, for viewers who prefer a faster-paced narrative, the slower build-up of Season 2 might be a deterrent.
The Broader TV Landscape
The Old Man is trending not only because of its own merits but also due to its competition and timing in the broader television landscape. According to TVLine, The Old Man is part of a packed TV schedule that includes the return of other popular shows like Emily in Paris and My Brilliant Friend. New shows like Chicken Sisters and Three Women are also vying for viewers' attention during this season. Despite this, The Old Man continues to stand out, largely thanks to its unique premise and the pedigree of its cast.
Conclusion
The Old Man is currently trending for several reasons, primarily due to the release of its second season and the anticipation built from the success of its debut. While the show continues to deliver pulse-pounding action and strong performances from Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow, early reviews have pointed out some pacing issues that may affect viewer engagement. Nonetheless, the series remains a must-watch for fans of espionage thrillers and action-packed dramas. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the show addresses these critiques and whether it can maintain its momentum in an increasingly crowded TV landscape.