Warning: This article contains spoilers for the season 1 finale of The Hunting Party.
Created by JJ Bailey, the inaugural season of The Hunting Party debuted on NBC and consists of ten thrilling episodes, currently available for streaming on Peacock. The storyline revolves around an elite team tasked with capturing America’s most dangerous escaped convicts from a clandestine prison that shouldn’t exist. Alongside Bailey, Jake Coburn serves as co-showrunner, executive producer, and writer, contributing to the show’s captivating narrative.
In the climactic season finale, titled “Jenna Wells,”the team pursues a “notorious killer chemist.”Tension escalates as team member Hassani suffers a gunshot wound, leading to uncertainty about his survival. Meanwhile, Oliver faces a critical predicament, collapsing from a cyanide patch similar to that used by their adversary. In a moment of emotional vulnerability, Bex confesses her true feelings about Oliver and her late partner Sam, just as Shane rushes to secure help.
In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Melissa Roxburgh discussed her emotional response to the finale and shared insights about Bex’s complex feelings for Oliver, hinting at a possible love triangle in a potential second season.
The Uncertainty of Oliver’s Fate in The Hunting Party
“I hope the audience has the same reaction because Nick Wechsler was such an integral part of the team.”
ScreenRant: The outlook for Oliver seems bleak. Will he pull through?
Melissa Roxburgh: The finale was surprising for all of us. We only learned about the twist when we received the script! Afterward, I got a call from Jake and JJ explaining the story direction, and my immediate reaction was a mix of disbelief and laughter.
I genuinely hope that viewers have a similar reaction because Nick Wechsler is such a vital part of our ensemble. The suspense about Oliver’s fate is intense both on-screen and behind the scenes; I’m eager for season 2 to see how it unfolds.
Was Bex’s emotional response indicative of a deeper realization?
Melissa Roxburgh: In her final moments with Oliver, it’s as if Bex confronts her feelings for him. This pivotal scene showcases the depth of her emotions, revealing just how much Oliver means to her, despite her earlier attempts to maintain distance throughout the season.
Anticipating a Love Triangle in Season 2 of The Hunting Party
“Going into season 2, I think Bex will find herself at a crossroads.”
Do you think Bex’s feelings for Oliver are platonic or romantic?
Melissa Roxburgh: I believe her feelings for Oliver are more romantic than she’s openly admitted. It’s complicated; you can genuinely care for someone, but that doesn’t always mean they are the best match for you. There’s definitely more complexity to their relationship than just friendship, without a doubt.
Bex also shares a moment with Shane in the hospital. Could romance be on the horizon there?
Melissa Roxburgh: Absolutely! What I appreciated about season 1 was its focus on Bex’s professional journey rather than romantic entanglements. It allowed her character to develop as a strong, independent woman. However, real-life dynamics often involve complicated relationships. In a potential season 2, Bex will have to choose between the dependable soldier who has always stood by her and someone who deeply understands her past.
Bex and Team Dynamics in Season 2 of The Hunting Party
“I don’t think Bex will shy away from challenges ahead.”
With the team now disbanded, how has Bex’s experience impacted her perspective?
Melissa Roxburgh: It’s clear that Bex didn’t fully grasp the complexities of the mission when she initially joined. She likely expected a straightforward operation—capturing criminals. However, the reality was much more layered than she anticipated, and she’s not one to back down from a challenge.
The disbanding of the team may leave Bex and her colleagues feeling isolated as they confront potential manipulation from their superiors. The motives behind their previous orders are now shrouded in uncertainty.
Considering Hassani’s tragic backstory, how might this reshape Bex’s understanding of him?
Melissa Roxburgh: Learning about Hassani’s wife’s death will indeed shift Bex’s perspective. Initially, she might not have realized the depth of his struggles. This newfound information will likely prompt her to approach him with more empathy, as his past experiences provide context to his character that he previously withheld.
Which unexpected twist resonated with you the most throughout season 1?
Melissa Roxburgh: The revelation of the barcode on Lazarus’ foot was unexpected. It indicates just how unpredictable the narrative is and leaves viewers eager for more twists in the future.
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All About NBC’s The Hunting Party
Creatively Brought to Life by JJ Bailey
The Hunting Party is a gripping crime procedural series that premiered in 2025, centering on a dedicated unit of investigators who tackle the challenge of recapturing infamous criminals from a secretive prison facility.
- Cast Highlights
- Josh McKenzie
- Sara Garcia
- Melissa Roxburgh & Patrick Sabongui
- Showrunner JJ Bailey
Stream season 1 of The Hunting Party exclusively on Peacock.