Top 15 Moments from The Wilds Season 2

While The Wilds Season 2 doesn’t necessarily live up to the hype of Season 1, it doesn’t entirely fail.

Anytime the series focuses on the women of The Wilds, it’s a joyous moment that makes sticking around worthwhile. Experiencing our favorite characters overcome obstacles, grow with one another, and act as a family is a season highlight.

Dedicating more time to the boys does not lend the series any favors or help in the long run. However, it isn’t a complete loss as it does provide a few heart-warming moments worth mentioning.

If you haven’t already binged the newest season, be sure to do so before reading this article! There are major spoilers ahead.

*Trigger Warning: this article discusses heavy topics depicted and explored within the series, including sexual assault and suicide*

In chronological order, here are our top moments from The Wilds Season 2:

1. Leah at Her Lowest (Season 2 Episode 1)

While Leah’s suicide attempt is nowhere near a happy moment, it’s one that I’ve expected to see on The Wilds. Frankly, I’m surprised it isn’t something visited in Season 1. Besides Becca, of course. It’s not graphic in nature, but it’s raw, authentic, and makes me connect with her character even more.

The scene also makes perfect sense as Leah’s next move. After being stuck in a pit and held against her will, Nora’s death, and nobody around to believe it, her back is against the wall. With no evidence of the pit to be found, anyone would logically think they were losing their mind.

Leah: I don’t think I actually meant to, like, end it all. I think I just wanted to stop feeling.

It’s also an important moment because it’s the ground bottom in Leah and Fatin’s relationship. After Leah crosses the line and tries to interrogate Rachel, Fatin snaps, threatens to kill her, and barely bats an eye after Leah’s attempt. From this point, the two only grow over the course of the season, and I love their overall arc.

Also, the score being Halsey had me yelling out of both excitement and misery. It upsets me how well it fits and that this is the one moment of the season we hear Halsey on the soundtrack.

2. Gretchen’s Son Calling Her Out (Season 2 Episode 1)

As we learn in Season 1, DJ is the son of Gretchen and the man who killed Nora’s boyfriend in a hazing gone wrong. He is not a character that I expected to see this season, or enjoy, but I’m glad we do.

DJ does the exact thing I’ve wanted to do since Season 1: take Gretchen down a peg for her cruelty and let her know how evil she is. She has herself on a pedestal, believing that by ruining these girls’ lives she’s doing real work, and it’s sick.

DJ: I’m a shitty kid, I am, who doesn’t know enough about the world or myself not to ruin things every once in a while. And I live with that every day. A person is dead ’cause of what I did. But you, you’re this whole entire adult destroying the lives of these kids. And it’s not an accident. You planned this. You enjoy it. I might be a fuck-up, but you’re a psychopath.

It’s thrilling to know that DJ plays a part in the government’s awareness of Gretchen’s wrongdoings, but it’s also frightening. Gretchen has made it vastly aware that she doesn’t care for anything other than her experiment. So, I wouldn’t put it past her to try forcing DJ into doing her bidding again.

If we are lucky enough to get a Season 3, I need DJ to play another role in Gretchen’s demise.

3. Leah Taking a Stand (Season 2 Episode 2)

Even though it ultimately doesn’t gain her freedom, this is such a thrilling moment.

After speaking to Raf and learning a bit of his story, Leah’s sick of all the games. She immediately tracks Daniel down, completely ignoring the guard yelling at her, until she makes it. Daniel tries to continue his usual charade, but Leah has no time for it and shuts his games down quickly.

It’s a power move for Leah to take charge and make her demands so early in the season. While Gretchen finds her ambition laughable and easy to manipulate, Leah is savvy and intelligent. She would never work with Gretchen unless she had ulterior motives, and Gretchen doesn’t factor that in.

In the end, this moment is why Leah comes so close to pulling the rug out from under Gretchen.

4. Rachel and Leah’s Connection (Season 2 Episode 2)

It’s safe to say that at the beginning of Season 2, Leah and Rachel are the two who are going through it the most. Rachel is grieving Nora, and Leah is going insane trying to find proof of her theory.

This observance leads Fatin to make statements and give the impression that they are like children who need constant care. Her insinuation sparks a fire in Rachel, leading her to force Leah up.

Rachel: Let’s go. I’m not gonna sit here being pitied.

After four days of no sleep and no movement, all it takes is three short sentences from Rachel, and she’s up. It says a lot about the connection they already hold.

Plus, the two of them clearing the air is much needed after Leah’s pushiness and Rachel’s outburst on The Wilds Season 2 Episode 1, “Day 30/1.”

From this point, the bond they’ve already cemented grows infinitely stronger as they depend on one another. Honestly, their shenanigans, deep talks, and ability to turn a bad situation around are significant highlights.

5. Fatin and Martha’s Sex Talk (Season 2 Episode 3)

Out of all the pairings and interactions on the show, Martha/Fatin is one we see the least. It’s a sad fact, but it also makes it even more thrilling when we do see them bond.

In a moment where Fatin could easily leave Martha be, she instead leans more into the mama Fatin role that we see her take on throughout Season 2. It’s a heavy but heartfelt moment that makes me love the pairing even more.

Fatin: I guess I’ve been kinda lucky. I’ve only really experienced the lighter side of it, for the most part. But I know that there’s a dark side out there. And if it came for you, I’m really fucking sorry.

Without even knowing the extent of Martha’s experience with sex, Fatin notices that it makes her uneasy. Her joke in their previous scene about sacrificing a virgin is in no way meant to be malicious, and I’m glad that she seeks Martha out to rectify the moment.

In Season 1, Fatin wouldn’t think twice about taking Martha’s annoyance as an excuse to leave. But that Fatin is long gone, and there’s nothing but love between everyone this time around, for the most part.

6. Dot’s Birthday! (Season 2 Episode 4)

After spending the majority of Season 1 playing the role of mother to the group, it’s so lovely to see Dot celebrate and enjoy herself. When Barbara’s decorations drifted ashore, I knew that they’d come in handy in some way.

Everything about this moment, or episode in general, is astounding and fun, for the most part. From the sand cake Rachel improvises, the tiara Martha and Toni devise, and the moment they all dance and celebrate, it’s magnificent.

Fatin: Guess what, bitches? Ice the booze… and get horny. It’s Dorothy’s motherfucking birthday.

With the amount of screen time cut from the girls this season, I’m over the moon with joy that we get this moment for them to let loose. Being stranded on an island is challenging work, and they deserve to reward themselves and not deprive themselves of relaxation.

7. Shelby Talking About Becca (Season 2 Episode 4)

After one too many drinks of champagne during Dot’s birthday celebration, Rachel gets upset in her drunken state. Nora’s death is still hitting her hard, and the thought of never celebrating with her again is eating her alive.

It’s a grim situation that transforms into this incredible bonding moment between Rachel and Shelby. Shelby understands the pain, resentment, and inner-hatred Rachel is experiencing because she’s been there. Heck, she’s still there.

Talking about Becca in the open is crucial character progression for Shelby and brings forth a sense of calm for Rachel. Knowing that she is not the only one in the same boat is a comfort, and it’s clear as Shelby teaches her the mantra that got her through.

I look forward to this conversation between Toni and Shelby in Season 3.

8. Kirin Sticking Up for Josh (Season 2 Episode 5)

Kirin begins the series coming off as nothing more than an air-head jock you’d want to avoid. But his slight evolution throughout the back end of the season is satisfying.

This scene, in particular, is notable because it’s the moment Kirin proves that he’s a man of his word. Him trusting Josh after Seth’s assault is the type of support that all abuse and sexual assault victims should be embraced with.

There is no hesitation, no defense for Seth’s actions, and no retort about sobriety. It’s refreshing and provides a sense of relief that Josh won’t have to fight to prove his assault is valid.

His promise to Josh that he won’t do anything unless Seth touches him again is genuine and one he sticks to. Seth’s inability to keep his fingers to himself gets him handled by Kirin real quick, and it’s incredibly satisfying. It’s a moment that’s bound to be a highlight for other viewers as well.

Without Kirin’s input, there’s no telling what else might have happened to Josh. It’s also unfortunate because Seth wasn’t someone random to Josh. He heavily idolized him before the occurrence, which only makes it more horrific.

Seth is unhinged and should not be anywhere near the other boys. It’s wild how Gretchen never fails to choose the worst operatives for a project supposed to be her “baby.”

9. Nora’s Alive! (Season 2 Episode 5)

I hope I’m not the only one who took the opportunity to scream “I knew it!” at their tv screen.

Nora’s only moment throughout the season is short and to the point; she’s grieving as well. Deceiving Rachel and faking her death is something she never wanted to do. The sorrow that Nora feels for her actions is visible on her face.

I’m intrigued to see how she will play a part in Season 3 and if she’ll stay true to Gretchen. The one factor in Nora’s life that you don’t mess with is Rachel; everyone knows that.

It’ll be a nice twist for Season 3 if Nora decides to betray Gretchen and help her sister and the others escape.

10. Martha’s Snap (Season 2 Episode 6)

Everything about Martha’s character arc this season has been phenomenal. We see her transform into this skilled hunter, making traps, and providing for the others. It’s a brand-new side to Martha, one that showcases her adaptability and understanding of survival.

However, with progression also comes the unexpected hurdles one must cross. Going against her morals and prior stance of vehemently opposing animal slaughter is something that she can live with to survive. But causing unnecessary pain and torture to a living creature instead of a quick death is not something she can live with.

Martha’s catatonic state is a scary situation, but the outpouring of love brought about because of it is wholesome. The girls building a platform to carry her to the hot springs is downright adorable and proof of their love.

I don’t love that this is happening to Martha whatsoever, but it fits her character. Seeing the rabbit chew its leg off to try and save its babies is the last straw in Martha’s ability to excuse her actions.

Knowing that Martha is okay and doesn’t stay in her catatonic state is the only thing that will get me through this hiatus. I only wish we’d gotten to see Toni be the one to bring her back, not Gretchen and her lies.

11. I Love You (Season 2 Episode 6)

The amount of Shoni provided throughout Season 2 is inexcusable and nowhere near enough, but moments such as this make up for it.

Toni is fooling around and randomly kissing Shelby while they search for firewood, poking at one another, and genuinely just having fun. Not only does this scene provide a critical moment in their relationship, but we’re also given a fun fact for Shelby.

Who would’ve guessed that our Shelby would be a fan of Mortal Kombat? Not me! But her imitation of the iconic “Finish Him” line had me cracking up. Toni and Shelby peeing and yelling “Finish Him” simultaneously? Screaming! The hilarity of this scene will live with me forever.

Toni: I should’ve said it before, but at least I can say it now and tomorrow, and every single fucking day after. I love you.

It may take Toni some time to return the sentiment due to her insecurities, but Martha, the Toni whisperer, sets her straight.

I refuse to believe that Shoni cannot prevail through the storm. It’ll be rough, and there will be a lot that comes to light, but they will reconnect with one another.

12. Scotty the Protector (Season 2 Episode 7)

By far, Scotty and Bo’s friendship is one of the better storylines to come from the boys’ venture on The Wilds Season 2. Since kids, the two have been friends and have had each other’s back from day one. It’s delightful to see that bond in action throughout the season, but especially in this moment.

Josh and Kirin are not keen to the fact that Scotty, Bo, and Henry willingly take fish from Seth – I get it. Seth is an absolute monster that should have no interaction with anyone, but that doesn’t excuse Josh’s actions.

The insults aimed at Bo for his weight, OCD, and care for their necessities are harsh and downright cruel. Even though Bo is the level-headed friend in the relationship and doesn’t let Scotty hurt him, the thought counts.

Scotty: Shut your ass up and get on your feet.

Kirin: Scotty, don’t do something stupid, man.

Scotty: You should have told that to your boy before he came at mine. The only thing Bo’s gonna be taking inventory of is this bitch’s teeth when I bust them out of his mouth. Nobody says that shit and gets away with it, you white-bread, rickets-having, devil-stick, fuck-stick cry baby.

Ironically, the entire time Josh berates Bo, he’s wearing a shirt that says, “hate has no home here.”

The cruelty Josh experiences from Seth is no excuse for his actions towards Bo. Accepting a fish from Seth to avoid starvation should not be the breaking point in the group. It’s as if Josh forgets how they all watched over him when the truth came out.

13. Fatin and Shelby Finding the Pit (Season 2 Episode 8)

With Fatin’s hunches that Leah could be right growing more and more by the day, she’s spiraling to get concrete proof before saying anything. The phone numbers in the notebook, the map, and the notes Nora wrote are not enough.

Fatin and Shelby finding the pit and phone is the rock-solid proof needed to convince Leah she isn’t crazy. This moment is everything and more because all Fatin wants to do is run to Leah and tell her just that.

Fatin: Leah did this shit alone… completely and totally alone. That is what is giving me fucking life right now.

Shelby: What?

Fatin: Someday soon… being able to tell her she was right.

Including Shelby in her quest for the truth is one of Fatin’s wisest decisions. She’s the one who notices the dirt is different at the pit, the drawings in the notebook are a map, and she found the phone in the tree.

I hope that in Season 3, we get to see Fatin have a moment alone with Leah so she can explain it all. You know, with them being rescued before she or Shelby can say anything about what they’ve found.

14. Seth’s Karma (Season 2 Episode 8)

It’s safe to say that Rafael beating Seth to a pulp in the middle of the ocean is one of the perfect ways to end the season.

After helping Gretchen manipulate the boys on the island and inflicting so much pain in general, it’s minuscule compared to what he deserves. He deserved to meet the fate he almost gave Henry at the beginning of the season for all his atrocities.

It’s pleasing that Raf can finally see Seth for what he is in the end. I only wish that he had been able to see the truth clearer beforehand. Maybe then we could have gotten a little more from his character.

If we see a reunion between Raf and Seth in Season 3, I need Raf to be the one to end him once and for all.

15. A Whole New Ballgame (Season 2 Episode 8)

After an intimidating last meeting with Gretchen, Leah revels in the idea that she’s won. She was wrong.

Even though her ability to stay undetected and one move ahead of Gretchen pays off in one way, ultimately, it’s a failure. Gretchen is virtually untouchable to the kids with the number of utilities and services at hand.

Her escape is one of the most aggravating moments. Leah has her in the palm of her hands, and she still slips away so easily. With Ian contacting the government and getting help from DJ, I expected much more than we were given.

This isn’t a pleasurable moment, but it gives us a decent picture of what we can expect from Season 3 — including Shelby potentially being a spy! I want to believe that the insinuation is pure misdirection, but you never know with a series like The Wilds.

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What are your favorite moments from The Wilds Season 2? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The Wilds is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.

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