Celebrity
Renewed Hit: "Celebrity Substitute" Season 2 in the Works
2025-05-13

A popular digital-first series is set to return with a fresh season. The show, known for its unique concept and widespread appeal, has already garnered over 100 million views across platforms within half a year of its debut. Created by Julian Shapiro-Barnum alongside EGOT winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, this series invites celebrities to share their expertise with elementary school students. Produced under Pasek & Paul’s Ampersand banner, the program blends education with entertainment, delivering heartwarming and humorous moments. Director Jake Wilson will reprise his role for the upcoming season. Collaborating with Amazon, the initiative also aims to support teachers by fulfilling their classroom needs.

Since its inception, "Celebrity Substitute" has captivated audiences by pairing well-known personalities with young learners. In each episode, these stars step into classrooms to teach skills ranging from music to sports. This innovative approach not only entertains but also inspires both children and educators alike. Notable participants in the first season included Florence Pugh, Billie Eilish, Kenan Thompson, and many others. The creators emphasize the importance of highlighting the dedication of public school teachers while fostering creativity among students.

Shapiro-Barnum expressed delight in producing the series, noting the pleasure derived from collaborating with talented guests and engaging with enthusiastic students. Furthermore, the program has been recognized for its excellence, receiving accolades at the Webby Awards and Digiday Streaming & Video Awards in 2025. As they prepare for another round of filming, Pasek and Paul echoed similar sentiments about continuing this meaningful project.

Amy Powell of Amazon highlighted the significance of supporting such initiatives that blend entertainment with impactful contributions to educational environments. Episodes are distributed on various social media channels, particularly YouTube, where they air in manageable segments lasting between six and twelve minutes.

The second season promises more captivating interactions as it continues to celebrate learning and community spirit. With renewed enthusiasm and ongoing partnerships, the series looks forward to inspiring new generations through creative storytelling and real-world connections.

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