Colbert, Stipe and Franco Sing ‘It’s the End of the Year As We Know It’ (And They Feel Fine)

Colbert, Stipe and Franco Sing ‘It’s the End of the Year As We Know It’ (And They Feel Fine) by Erin Qualey

The quest to find Jace and stop Valentine leads to the unveiling of family secrets in the Season 2 premiere of Freeform’s ‘Shadowhunters’, “This Guilty Blood.”

Coming off an explosive first season on Freeform, Shadowhunters will return January 2 with an extended season of twenty episodes. The premiere, titled “This Guilty Blood,” wastes no time jumping back into the action-packed drama where Shadowhunters (and a few Downworlders) are on the hunt to find Jace and secure the Mortal Cup.

The premiere ties up many loose ends from the Season 1 finale, and there’s a strong thematic focus on familial relationships, predominantly between Valentine and Jace. Their already complex father-son connection grows more twisted and dark as the episode progresses, and though there are still mysteries surrounding Valentine’s past and the motives of his actions, audiences will be hooked by the uncovered backstory and details of Jace’s youth.

At the New York Institute, Clary is eager to take on more of a leadership role, but her inexperience as a Shadowhunter causes setbacks for the team on their quest to find Jace. Clary also must navigate her new relationship with her mother. Having woken up to find her daughter trained as a Shadowhunter, Jocelyn is conflicted about how to work with Clary and how to mentor her in the Shadow World. The addition of Victor Aldertree as the newly instated Head of The Institute also instigates tensions.

Alec and Magnus’ relationship is central to the story-line, and it also feels more emotionally developed, which fans of the series are sure to appreciate. Izzy’s character is more dynamic as well, opening up potential for independent story arcs and more complex characterization. Simon shines as a lovable, witty Vampire who is still learning about his new identity. In addition to his charm, seeds are planted that make us particularly interested in how Simon will progress this season.

“This Guilty Blood” is fast-paced episode that’s filled with emotional twists and action-packed scenes. Tensions are high between generations, but the balance of older and younger characters strengthens the themes of the show, along with the creatively vivid New York City imagery and heightened suspense.

Check out the video above for a first-look at “This Guilty Blood,” and be sure to watch the Season 2 premiere of Freeform’s Shadowhunters, Monday, January 2 at 9/8c.