Beta Film has closed a deal with the North American streaming service MHz Choice (USA/Canada) and SBS in Australia for a second season of the Danish hospital drama "The Shift." “The success of the first season of The Shift exceeded our expectations, and we're thrilled to return for another season," Lone Scherfig, Creator and Showrunner, said. "While we are maintaining the same core themes, this season offers a fresh perspective with some new characters."
"The Shift" is produced by Nordisk Film Creative Alliance for TV 2. The first season has been acquired by Greece, Cyprus, Estonia, and Poland, with more territories currently in negotiation. Principal photography of season two has begun, with internationally acclaimed showrunner Lone Scherfig directing the first two episodes.
"The Shift" premiered at Berlinale 2022 and was shortlisted for the Nordic TV Drama Screenplay Award in the same year. The title has garnered high ratings on Denmark’s TV 2, captivating 35% of viewers aged 20-60 across linear and streaming platforms, and has also found remarkable success in the Netherlands. There, a remake aired on the public broadcaster NPO and became the most-watched program on public TV in the Netherlands so far in 2023. Furthermore, a Slovakian remake is in negotiation.
The upcoming eight episodes of season two will continue the show’s compelling narrative, picking up two years after the events of the first season. This time, the story unfolds in the children's ward of the hospital, with each episode centered on a different young patient. The new season stars Ann Eleonora Jørgensen (The Lord's Ways) as Linda and Anders W. Berthelsen (DNA'), as well as the returning characters portrayed by Pål Sverre Hagen (Exit, Beforeigners) and Mette Horn (The Wave) among others.
"We revisit the hospital two years later, focusing on the stories within the pediatric ward," Scherfig said. "The dedicated workers in Denmark's pediatric wards bear a significant daily responsibility, serving as unsung heroes who uphold one of our nation's most crucial institutions. Their unyielding compassion, inclusivity, and professionalism make them exemplars of empathy in our society. Amid an ever-changing and unpredictable world, they not only face challenges but also champion a noble cause. This season pays a heartfelt tribute to their unwavering commitment.”
The success of the first season of The Shift exceeded our expectations and we're thrilled to return for another season. While we are maintaining the same core themes, this season offers a fresh perspective with some new characters.” Lone Scherfig Creator and Showrunner, "The Shift"
