A Shift in Expectations

Fans of Sheriff Country who anticipated a romantic storyline between real-life partners Morena Baccarin and Ben McKenzie in season 2 might be in for a surprise. According to showrunner Matt Lopez, their on-screen relationship will strictly remain platonic.


«There is a huge personal element to their relationship. What their relationship has never been is there’s never been a hint of romance between it,» Lopez revealed in an exclusive interview. He acknowledged that while the audience naturally expects sparks due to the actors' real-life connection, he prefers to steer the narrative in a different direction.


Focusing on Character Development

Lopez noted that he enjoys subverting viewer expectations. Instead of a romance, the focus for Baccarin’s character, Mickey, is on a profound personal journey. When the season begins, Mickey is at a breaking point, and McKenzie’s character, Sheriff Jim Wade, steps in to support her during this vulnerable phase.


«This season isn’t about whether she can put her family back together. It’s like can she put herself back together?» Lopez explained. «What we’ll see with Sheriff Jim Wade is he will play a role in that.»


A Shared History

The showrunner also teased that upcoming episodes will delve into the deep backstory of Jim and Mickey, revealing how their bond was forged long before the current events of the series:

  • They attended the academy together and have been close friends for years.
  • Despite having similar experience levels, Jim has served as Sheriff of Drake County for much longer than Mickey has led Edgewater County.
  • Jim served as one of Mickey’s earliest and most vocal supporters during a time when others were skeptical of her abilities.

The Boone Complication

The narrative also continues to address the lingering tension with Nate Boone (Matt Lauria). Despite his unrequited feelings, Boone remains a supportive, selfless figure in Mickey’s life. Lopez highlighted that while Mickey tends to avoid dealing with complicated emotional issues, she will eventually be forced to confront her feelings regarding Boone as the season progresses.


Sheriff Country airs every Friday at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.