After many noble but failed attempts, the world will rightly, spend an entire year praising Rose Byrne. That start-to-finish continuity comes with a minor caveat, since the acclaimed performance that kicked off 2025 is the same one likely to see it out, but that’s just the beauty of a sundance premiere with enough Oscar buzz to command a fall release: The Park City crowd gets to fawn all over “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” nine months before everyone else can join the chorus.
In a way, 2025’s minor haul and major lift mimic Byrne’s steady rise in the Hollywood ranks. While Ellen Parsons’ senior associates (aka “Damages” fans) have known for nearly two decades there aren’t 12 comparable actors who could form a jury of her peers, it’s taken an expansive repertoire of roles to prime our favorite Aussie actor for her big year. By flourishing in horror movies (“Insidious”), superhero flicks (“X-Men: First Class”) and blockbuster comedies (“Bridesmaids,” “Neighbors,” and “Spy”), Byrne has generated enough heat to explode into stardom.## “Platonic” Isn’t Trying to Reinvent the Rom-Com – It’s Just Really Good at It
Co-created by Nicholas Stoller and Francesca Delbanco, the plainly titled Apple TV+ series first premiered in May 2023 to a collective shrug. Much like the team’s previous collaboration failed to become the theatrical juggernaut it deserved to be, “Platonic” flew under the radar as “yet another [blank]”: “yet another TV show that shoudl’ve been a movie,” or “yet another star-driven Apple series,” or “yet another romantic-comedy that’s trying to reinvent the romantic-comedy” (or even “yet another Rose Byrne Apple show,” not that anyone would complain about that).
It didn’t seem to matter that these superficial assessments were wrong. Yes, “Platonic” reunites the stars and director of “Neighbors” and “Neighbors 2” for another comedy about middle-age friends caught between thier waning coolness and mounting responsibilities. But “Platonic” follows a classic sitcom format, pairing one-off episodic adventures with a lightly serialized seasonal arc, both of which depend on (and are subservient to) the comic chemistry of their hilarious leads, Byrne and Seth Rogen.
And yes, those two are movie stars in an Apple series, but unlike the empty calories offered by Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon in “The morning show,” or the anthology structure that allows for Jake Gyllenhaal to lead the first season of “Presumed Innocent” before another actor takes over in Season 2, or the high-minded but misguided stab at genre-bending science-fiction that turned Colin Farrell blue in the face, “Sugar,” “Platonic” is a hang-out comedy. It understands that one advantage TV has over film is time, and it gives you five hours per season to enjoy Rogen and Byrne’s intoxicating company – without any of the exhausting self-seriousness meant to give weight to those other A-listers’ TV time.
Which brings us to the rom-com part of “Platonic’s” simple but savvy equation. Stoller and Delbanco’s series isn’t trying to reinvent the romantic-comedy as much as it utilized the tools of a
‘Platonic’ Season 2: Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne Navigate Friendship’s Messy Middle Ground – Again
Apple TV+’s “Platonic” returns for a second season, and the core question remains: can two people who should have grown out of each other actually grow with each other? Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne reprise their roles as Charlie and Sylvia, former best friends reconnecting in midlife and attempting to navigate the complexities of adulthood, relationships, and, crucially, maintaining a platonic bond.
Season 2 picks up with Charlie and Sylvia seemingly having found a comfortable rhythm. They’ve successfully integrated themselves into each other’s lives, offering support (and often, hilarious interference) in their respective romantic pursuits and parental duties. However, comfort doesn’t equate to simplicity. the new season delves deeper into the challenges of balancing individual needs with the demands of a close friendship, notably as both characters grapple with evolving desires and unexpected life changes.
The strength of “Platonic” continues to lie in the undeniable chemistry between Rogen and Byrne. Their comedic timing is impeccable, and they effortlessly portray the easy banter and underlying affection that defines a long-standing friendship.the show doesn’t shy away from the messiness of human connection, exploring the awkwardness, insecurities, and occasional frustrations that come with truly knowing someone.
While the first season focused on the initial re-establishment of their bond, Season 2 feels more nuanced. it’s less about rekindling a friendship and more about sustaining one thru the inevitable ups and downs of life. New storylines introduce fresh complications, forcing Charlie and Sylvia to confront their own limitations and re-evaluate their expectations of each other.
“Platonic” isn’t groundbreaking television, but it’s consistently funny, relatable, and surprisingly heartwarming. It’s a show about the enduring power of friendship, even when that friendship looks nothing like the idealized versions we often see on screen. And in a world increasingly focused on romantic relationships, “Platonic” offers a refreshing reminder that platonic love can be just as vital, complex, and rewarding.## “Platonic” on Apple TV+ Finds Its Sweet Spot in Season 2: A Review
“Platonic,” the Apple TV+ comedy starring Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen,initially felt like it was off to a shaky start.However, the second half of Season 2 cleverly demonstrates the unique value certain characters bring to a story, and to each other’s lives. The show delivers a refreshingly honest portrayal of platonic relationships, even incorporating a touch of romance – though not the conventional, cinematic kind.
### A Raw and Relatable Dynamic
The series excels in its brutally honest dialogue. A particularly striking exchange between Will (Rogen) and Sylvia (Byrne) encapsulates the show’s core appeal: “You don’t mess up my life,” Will confesses to Sylvia. “You help make my life better. You’re the only person who’s honest with me, and it’s just easier to yell at you than to get my shit together.” This raw vulnerability highlights a common truth: sometimes, it’s easier to project frustrations onto those closest to us than to confront our own issues. “Platonic” doesn’t shy away from these uncomfortable realities, making it a highly relatable and enjoyable watch.
### Recognition for Byrne and Rogen
Beyond the compelling narrative, both Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen are receiving critical acclaim for their work. Their production company, The Studio, is poised for a critically important night at the 2025 Emmy Awards in September. Byrne, in particular, is garnering attention for her role in the upcoming film, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” which will begin its rollout on October 10.
While these projects are significant achievements, the reviewer suggests that “Platonic” deserves continued recognition. It may not be the most high-profile project for either star, but its consistent quality and relatable themes make it a standout series.
### Looking Ahead to Season 3
“Platonic” offers a refreshing take on modern relationships and the importance of platonic connection. It’s a show that doesn’t need to be the biggest hit to be worthwhile – it simply needs to continue delivering its unique brand of honest and funny storytelling. Here’s hoping for a Season 3.
*”Platonic” premiered on Wednesday, August 6 on Apple TV+ with two episodes. new episodes are released weekly, with the finale airing on Wednesday, October 1.*