Mystery Road: Origin Season 2 is set to premiere on September 21, 2025, exclusively on ABC iview and ABC TV. The new season continues to follow the early years of Jay Swan, the iconic Indigenous detective whose story has become central to Australian television and film. In this chapter, Jay begins his posting in a small town where his estranged father lives, and where he meets Mary — a woman who will forever change the course of his life.

With a compelling mix of established stars and rising talents, Season 2 delivers a strong ensemble that deepens the cultural, emotional, and investigative layers of the story. From Mark Coles Smith’s powerful lead performance to new faces joining the cast, the series promises gripping drama, intergenerational storytelling, and a continued exploration of identity, family, and justice in regional Australia.

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Mystery Road: Origin Season 2 Complete cast credits

1- Mark Coles Smith – Jay Swan

Mark Coles Smith reprises his role as the young Jay Swan, the character that has become a cornerstone of the Mystery Road universe. Jay is a police officer stationed in a small Australian town where personal and professional challenges intertwine. His journey as a man caught between cultural identity, family estrangement, and the demands of justice forms the backbone of the series. Season 2 deepens this struggle as Jay continues to define his place in both his community and the police force.

Smith is widely recognized for his powerful screen presence and ability to capture complex emotional depth, making him the perfect fit for this iconic role. Beyond Mystery Road, he has appeared in acclaimed productions such as Last Cab to Darwin and Bury Me Standing. His performance in Mystery Road: Origin has earned praise for breathing new life into the backstory of Jay Swan, a character originally portrayed by Aaron Pedersen in the films and earlier series.

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2- Tuuli Narkle – Mary

Tuuli Narkle returns as Mary, the woman who profoundly impacts Jay’s life and future. Mary’s story is not just a love interest but also a personal journey of resilience, identity, and strength. Her presence challenges Jay to reflect on what he wants from life and how his choices shape both of their futures. As Jay confronts his past and tries to forge his path forward, Mary becomes a grounding yet transformative force in his journey.

Narkle is one of Australia’s most promising talents, known for her commanding performances in All My Friends Are Racist and Bad Behaviour. With her portrayal of Mary, she brings depth, nuance, and humanity to a character that anchors Jay’s emotional arc. Audiences connect with her authenticity, making her role pivotal to both the drama and heart of Mystery Road: Origin.

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3- Clarence Ryan – Sputty

Clarence Ryan plays Sputty, a key figure in Jay’s circle whose role in the narrative highlights themes of loyalty, friendship, and the pull of community. Sputty provides an essential perspective on Jay’s struggles, often serving as both a confidant and a reminder of the cultural roots that Jay is torn between. His presence adds richness to the storytelling by reflecting the broader community dynamics that influence Jay’s decisions.

Ryan is an accomplished actor with credits in Redfern Now and Boys in the Trees. His performances are marked by intensity and authenticity, qualities that make Sputty a memorable and vital part of the series. With Mystery Road: Origin Season 2, Ryan continues to bring dimension to the character, ensuring Sputty stands out as more than just a side character, but as someone deeply woven into the show’s cultural fabric.

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4- Robyn Malcolm – Simmo

Robyn Malcolm takes on the role of Simmo, a character who provides tension, guidance, and occasionally friction in Jay’s journey as a young officer. Simmo represents the institutional pressures and challenges of being part of a police force that doesn’t always align with Jay’s values or instincts. Her role highlights the systemic issues within law enforcement and adds another layer to the challenges Jay faces in his professional life.

Malcolm is a veteran of Australian and New Zealand television, best known for Outrageous Fortune and Top of the Lake. Her ability to embody strong, layered characters makes her a standout in the ensemble. In Mystery Road: Origin, she brings gravitas and a sense of realism that helps elevate the themes of justice, corruption, and personal struggle.

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5- Geoff Morrell

Geoff Morrell joins the ensemble with his extensive experience in film and television. While his exact role has not yet been disclosed, his inclusion suggests a character of authority or influence, fitting given his history of playing commanding roles in Australian dramas. His presence often signals a complex figure whose impact on the narrative will be felt strongly.

Morrell has appeared in numerous acclaimed projects, including Changi, Cloudstreet, and Grass Roots, where his performances have earned him recognition and awards. His addition to Mystery Road: Origin Season 2 strengthens the cast lineup and promises more compelling storytelling through his nuanced portrayals.

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6- Aswan Reid

Aswan Reid is part of the new season’s cast, bringing youthful energy and fresh perspective to the ensemble. Although details about his character remain under wraps, Reid’s inclusion hints at an expansion of the narrative to younger voices and perspectives within the community. This aligns with Mystery Road’s commitment to exploring intergenerational themes of identity, belonging, and justice.

Reid is an emerging talent in the Australian screen industry, and Mystery Road: Origin Season 2 offers him a chance to showcase his range in a high-profile project. His casting reflects the series’ balance between established stars and rising actors, ensuring a diverse and engaging storytelling landscape.

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7- Alex Malone – Alice

Alex Malone portrays Alice, a character whose role adds depth to the personal and community stories that intersect with Jay’s journey. Alice’s presence provides emotional resonance and fresh narrative angles, offering insight into the broader social dynamics at play in the small town setting. Her story promises to connect strongly with themes of belonging and resilience.

Malone is a growing talent in the industry, and her casting as Alice signals her rising profile. With her naturalistic acting style, she is expected to bring authenticity and empathy to the role, making Alice a memorable part of the unfolding story in Season 2.

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8- Nicholas Bell

Nicholas Bell joins the cast as an experienced performer known for his versatility and command. His role in Mystery Road: Origin Season 2 has not yet been detailed, but given his background, audiences can expect him to portray a character with weight and complexity. His involvement often elevates the intensity of the narrative.

Bell has an extensive film and television career, with credits including The Games, Red Dog: True Blue, and Neighbours. His reputation as a dependable and skilled actor makes him a valuable addition to the Mystery Road ensemble.

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9- Helen Morse

Helen Morse appears in Season 2, adding veteran star power to the cast. While her character is still undisclosed, Morse’s roles typically bring wisdom, gravitas, and emotional depth, likely enriching the intergenerational storytelling at the heart of Mystery Road.

Morse has a long and respected career in Australian film and stage, with standout performances in Caddie and Picnic at Hanging Rock. Her presence in the series enhances its credibility and ensures audiences can expect strong, layered performances.

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10- Steve Le Marquand

Steve Le Marquand’s addition to the cast suggests a character who may challenge or complicate Jay’s world, given his history of playing gritty, hard-edged figures. His characters often add intensity and unpredictability, qualities that would mesh seamlessly with the crime and drama elements of the series.

Le Marquand is best known for roles in Last Train to Freo, Two Hands, and Beneath Hill 60. His ability to embody flawed, often morally ambiguous characters makes him a standout addition to the Mystery Road: Origin Season 2 cast.

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11- Rarriwuy Hick

Rarriwuy Hick brings strength and authenticity to the ensemble, likely playing a character deeply tied to community and cultural heritage. Her performances often highlight resilience and connection, qualities that are essential to the thematic core of Mystery Road.

Hick is a well-known Australian actress and dancer, recognized for Redfern Now, Cleverman, and True Colours. Her inclusion in the series adds cultural depth and ensures that Indigenous voices remain central to the narrative.

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12- Luke Carroll

Luke Carroll joins the cast, bringing with him decades of experience and recognition as a respected Indigenous actor. His role is expected to tie closely into the community and cultural storylines that Mystery Road consistently explores. Carroll’s involvement guarantees a character that enriches the show’s authenticity.

Carroll’s credits span Redfern Now, Plum, and Play School, demonstrating his versatility across genres and audiences. His presence adds credibility and ensures the series continues its tradition of strong Indigenous representation.

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13- Shantae Barnes-Cowan

Shantae Barnes-Cowan rounds out the cast, offering a youthful and vibrant energy to the series. She is expected to bring perspective and emotional range to a new generation of characters that intersect with Jay’s story.

Barnes-Cowan is a rising star, known for her performance in Firebite and Sweet As. Her casting ensures that Mystery Road: Origin Season 2 continues to nurture fresh talent while expanding the emotional and generational breadth of the series.