"The Boyfriend" Season 2 Unveils Diverse Cast and Snowy Romance in Hokkaido Ahead of Netflix Premiere

Japan's trailblazing same-sex dating reality series "The Boyfriend" is set to captivate audiences once again with Season 2, premiering exclusively on Netflix on January 13, 2026. This season shifts the action to the picturesque winter landscapes of Hokkaido, transforming the iconic Green Room from Season 1 into a cozy snowy lodge where 10 single men will cohabitate for two months. Participants will navigate daily life, including running a coffee truck, forging friendships, and exploring romantic possibilities in an environment that fosters vulnerability and connection.

The show's format remains true to its affirming roots, emphasizing authentic LGBTQ+ experiences without scripted drama. As in the first season, the men will share intimate conversations, group activities like skiing on nearby slopes, and heartfelt moments in settings such as a makeshift igloo, all while building interpersonal dynamics under the watchful eyes of studio hosts. The official trailer, released recently, teases shocking reunions, blossoming showmances, and real-time host reactions to twists, inviting viewers into the emotional journey.

This season stands out for its expanded inclusivity, featuring men aged 20 to 40 from Japan, Thailand, and Peru—a notable evolution from the Japan-only cast of Season 1. Each participant brings unique backgrounds, professions, and romantic aspirations, highlighting the breadth of LGBTQ+ identities and lived experiences.

- Bomi, 23, university student from Tokyo Prefecture: Seeking his first boyfriend with dreams of a pure, innocent romance.
- Hiroya, 29, art director from Hokkaido Prefecture: A considerate individual who has shied away from relationships and hopes to embrace change.
- Huwei, 26, graduate student from Thailand: Multilingual, smart, and athletic, bringing an international perspective to the group.
- Izaya, 32, IT sales worker from Tokyo Prefecture: Sincere and strict, looking for a partner committed to future planning.
- Jobu, 26, marketer at a manufacturing company from Osaka Prefecture: Expressive and enthusiastic, ready to energize any love pursuit.
- Kazuyuki, 40, telecom sales worker from Osaka Prefecture: Recently single after 15 years, offering kind, older-brother wisdom.
- Ryuki, 20, university student from Osaka Prefecture: A kind, younger-brother type exploring connections.
- William, 34, IT project manager from Peru: Popular and marriage-minded, healing from past heartbreak.

These bios, shared via Netflix's official channels, underscore the show's commitment to representing diverse ages, nationalities, and emotional journeys within the LGBTQ+ community.

Returning hosts MEGUMI, Horan Chiaki, Aoyama Thelma, Durian Lollobrigida, and Tokui Yoshimi will provide commentary, reacting live to the participants' developments and offering insights that resonate with queer audiences worldwide. Produced by Kyodo Television for Netflix, "The Boyfriend" made history as Japan's first unscripted series centered on same-sex romance when Season 1 launched in 2024, earning praise for its gentle portrayal of gay men forming bonds away from urban hustle.

From a broader LGBTQ+ perspective, Season 2 advances visibility by incorporating non-Japanese participants, reflecting global queer diasporas and challenging cultural norms around same-sex relationships in Asia. Huwei from Thailand and William from Peru add layers of cross-cultural exchange, potentially sparking discussions on intersectional identities—such as nationality, language, and migration—in modern dating. Critics and fans have lauded the series for fostering environments where transgender and non-binary viewers see affirming representations through its inclusive casting and narrative focus, even as it centers gay men this season.

Episodes will release weekly, allowing viewers to follow the evolving dynamics in real time. As the men confront personal growth alongside romance—whether it's Kazuyuki mentoring younger castmates or Jobu's energy igniting group vibes—the season promises to deepen the conversation on healthy LGBTQ+ relationships. With its snowy, introspective backdrop, "The Boyfriend" Season 2 not only entertains but also normalizes queer love stories for international audiences.