Warning - This article contains spoilers for the Season 1 finale of Loki.
Loki Season 1 ended with a massive cliffhanger, setting the stage for a much more complicated sophomore season. Directed by Kate Herron, Loki thrived on exploring different concepts like time-travel and the vast multiverse, giving Tom Hiddleston's God of Mischief new story opportunities.
Hiddleston's performance as the titular trickster is the main highlight of the series, and this was further given emphasis by the narrative direction and combined efforts of Loki creator Michael Waldron and Herron.
Herron's directing prowess was apparent throughout the show's debut season, as evidenced by iconic Avengers references and inspiration from shows like Teletubbies and Blade Runner. Exploring complex themes such as Loki's bisexuality (of which Herron is a vocal supporter) and romantic connection with Sylvie helped cement the performance of the lead stars, and this was made possible by Herron's vision for the tricksters.
The Season 1 finale of Loki managed to set up an unexpected narrative for the show's second season. However, it seems that a notable crew member will not join the time-based adventure when it returns.
LOKI SEASON 1 DIRECTOR NOT RETURNING
Loki Season 1 director Kate Herron sat down with Deadline to confirm that she will not be returning for Season 2 of the Disney+ series.
Herron said that she "always planned" to direct episodes for Season 1 while also saying that she will be happy to watch the upcoming season "as a fan:"
“I’m not returning. I always planned to be just on for this and to be honest, season 2 wasn’t in the — that’s something that just came out and I’m so excited. I’m really happy to watch it as a fan next season, but I just think I’m proud of what we did here and I’ve given it my all. I’m working on some other stuff yet to be announced.”
When asked if she would return to direct a Marvel movie, Herron answered with a firm "no," but she did point out that she would love to work with Marvel again down the road:
“No, I’m just focused on my own stuff at the moment. I love Marvel and I’d love to work with them again, but my outing with Loki is what I’ve done with them.”
KATE HERRON LEFT AN IMPACT IN LOKI
Many may see it as unfortunate that Kate Herron will not return to direct the episodes of Loki Season 2, but this gives Marvel Studios a prime opportunity to find new directors that would give fresh perspective in the show's narrative direction.
Still, there's no denying that Herron had an impact on the God of Mischief's new lease of life in Phase 4. The fact that she was the one responsible for confirming Loki's bisexuality is already an achievement on its own, and it will no doubt be a memorable experience for the Sex Education director.
Marvel Studios is known for leaving doors open for past directors to return, and it's possible that Herron will be considered down the line due to her impressive work behind-the-scenes. Given that Phase 4 has a massive slate of films and TV series, the opportunities are endless for Herron if given the chance.
For now, Herron deserves a much-needed break after enduring a pandemic-infused production for Loki. Thankfully, the fact that she confirmed that she has "some other stuff" that has yet to be announced is a good sign of things to come for her impressive career.
The full first season of Loki is now streaming on Disney+.
