Rizzoli & Isles Season 2 - TV Series Review

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The second season of Rizzoli & Isles aired from July 11, 2011, to December 26, 2011, expanding on the foundation laid in the debut season. With 15 episodes, this season deepens character development, introduces new personal and professional challenges, and ups the stakes in its procedural storytelling. As Jane Rizzoli (Angie Harmon) and Dr Maura Isles (Sasha Alexander) continue their partnership, their evolving friendship becomes even more central to the narrative.

Season 2 follows a mix of episodic storytelling and longer-running narrative threads, maintaining the procedural format while incorporating serialized elements that delve deeper into the lives of the characters. The season opens with We Don't Need Another Hero, which addresses the aftermath of Jane’s injury from the Season 1 finale, where she heroically saved hostages and took a bullet for her team. This episode sets the tone for the season, focusing on recovery, resilience, and the cost of heroism.

The cases tackled this season are more diverse and layered, ranging from high-profile murders to personal vendettas. The writers explore new investigative territories, including art heists, gang-related violence, and crimes involving complex psychological motives. Each case not only challenges Jane and Maura’s professional skills but also serves as a backdrop for personal revelations and relationship dynamics.

A significant overarching storyline involves Maura's complicated family background. The introduction of her biological father, crime boss Patrick 'Paddy' Doyle (John Doman), brings tension and emotional conflict. This subplot highlights Maura’s struggle to reconcile her moral compass with her biological ties, offering some of the most poignant moments of the season.

Jane Rizzoli (Angie Harmon): Jane’s arc in Season 2 focuses on her recovery—both physical and emotional—from the traumatic events of the previous season. Her drive and dedication to her work remain central, but viewers see more of her vulnerabilities, particularly in her relationships with family and friends. Jane’s relationship with her younger brother, Frankie Jr. (Jordan Bridges), becomes more prominent as he pursues his own career in law enforcement, leading to moments of pride and sibling tension.

Jane also navigates the complexities of her love life. Although romantic subplots are not a primary focus, they offer insight into Jane’s guarded nature and the difficulty she faces in balancing her demanding career with personal relationships. Her banter with her colleagues, particularly Korsak and Frost, continues to highlight her camaraderie and leadership within the team.

Maura Isles (Sasha Alexander): Maura’s character development takes center stage in Season 2. The revelation of her biological father’s identity adds depth to her backstory and challenges her sense of self. As someone who values logic and order, Maura’s connection to a criminal figure creates internal conflict, testing her principles and her ability to separate personal emotions from professional duties.



Maura’s social awkwardness, while still a source of humour, is handled with greater nuance this season. Her attempts to connect with others—whether through romantic endeavours or deepening her friendship with Jane—are portrayed with empathy, making her a more relatable and well-rounded character.

Supporting Characters

Angela Rizzoli (Lorraine Bracco): Angela continues to be a source of humour and warmth, but her storyline is expanded as she starts working at the precinct café. This new role allows Angela to interact more with the team, adding levity and fostering connections with other characters.

Barry Frost (Lee Thompson Young): Frost’s role is more developed in Season 2, showcasing his tech expertise and his growth as a detective. His partnership with Jane strengthens, and his moments of vulnerability, such as his fear of autopsies, are balanced with his professionalism.

Vince Korsak (Bruce McGill): Korsak serves as a mentor and father figure to Jane, offering wisdom and unwavering support. His backstory is further explored, including his past marriages and his love for animals, adding layers to his character.

Frankie Rizzoli Jr (Jordan Bridges): Frankie’s journey to prove himself as a capable officer adds a subplot of ambition and sibling rivalry. His interactions with Jane reflect both familial love and the pressures of living up to her achievements.

Patrick 'Paddy' Doyle (John Doman): Doyle’s introduction as Maura’s biological father brings a compelling moral dilemma to the forefront. His criminal activities and his protective instincts toward Maura create tension, forcing her to confront uncomfortable truths about her origins.

The exploration of familial bonds is a recurring theme in Season 2. From Maura’s discovery of her biological father to Jane’s relationship with her mother and brothers, the show delves into the complexities of family dynamics. These storylines emphasize the idea that family is not just about blood ties but also about the connections we choose to nurture.

Season 2 frequently examines the grey areas of morality, particularly through Maura’s connection to Doyle. The tension between her personal feelings and her professional obligations raises questions about loyalty, justice, and the cost of doing the right thing.

Jane’s journey of recovery from her Season 1 injuries is emblematic of the broader theme of resilience. Her determination to return to work and her refusal to let past traumas define her underscore the show’s focus on strength in adversity.

The friendship between Jane and Maura remains the heart of the series. Their bond is tested by disagreements and external pressures, but their unwavering support for each other highlights the importance of trust and understanding.

Season 2 maintains the balance between drama and humour established in the first season. The tone is slightly darker due to the emotional weight of the storylines, particularly those involving Maura’s family and Jane’s recovery. However, moments of levity—often provided by Angela’s antics or Frost and Korsak’s banter—prevent the show from becoming overly sombre.

Visually, the series continues to emphasize realism in its depiction of crime scenes and autopsies. The Boston setting remains a character in its own right, with its distinct neighbourhoods and landmarks providing an authentic backdrop.

Season 2 further solidifies Rizzoli & Isles as a standout in the procedural genre, particularly for its portrayal of strong, complex female characters. The show’s ability to tackle serious themes while maintaining a sense of humour resonates with viewers, especially those seeking representation in a traditionally male-dominated genre.

The deepening of Maura’s backstory and the exploration of her family ties offer a fresh perspective on adopted identities and the impact of nature versus nurture. These storylines contribute to broader conversations about identity and belonging.

Strong character development, particularly for Maura. Well-balanced blend of procedural storytelling and serialized arcs. Thoughtful exploration of complex themes, including morality and identity. Continued chemistry between Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander.

Some cases feel formulaic, adhering to familiar procedural tropes. Supporting characters, while given more depth, still lack significant development compared to the leads. Patrick Doyle’s storyline, while compelling, occasionally overshadows other plotlines.

Season 2 of Rizzoli & Isles builds on the success of the first season, offering richer character development and more intricate storytelling. By delving into the personal lives of its protagonists and tackling morally complex narratives, the season elevates the series beyond its procedural roots. The deepening friendship between Jane and Maura remains the heart of the show, driving both its emotional and narrative appeal. With its compelling mix of drama, humour, and heart, Season 2 cements Rizzoli & Isles as a standout in the crime drama genre.

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