Actress Nam Ji Hyun will not return for the second season of the popular legal drama Good Partner. Reports confirm she left due to scheduling conflicts. Co-star Jang Na Ra is expected to reprise her role as filming starts in early 2026.
The news came on June 24 from industry sources. Nam Ji Hyun and the production team had discussions about her return. However, her busy schedule made it impossible for her to join Season 2.
Good Partner Season 2 is now in pre-production. Filming will begin in the first half of 2026. The show’s team is finalizing the cast, and Jang Na Ra is reportedly in talks to return.
The first season aired from July to September 2024. It followed divorce lawyers Cha Eun Kyung (Jang Na Ra) and Han Yu Ri (Nam Ji Hyun). The drama was praised for its realistic cases and strong chemistry between the leads.
Fans are disappointed by Nam Ji Hyun’s exit. Many loved her role as rookie lawyer Han Yu Ri. Her growth from a beginner to a skilled attorney was a highlight of the show.
“Nam Ji Hyun’s performance as Han Yu Ri was outstanding. Her chemistry with Jang Na Ra made the show special.” – Industry Insider
The first season had strong ratings, peaking at 17.7%. It also won awards, including the Grand Prize for Jang Na Ra at the 2024 SBS Drama Awards. Nam Ji Hyun won Best Actress in a Miniseries.
With Nam Ji Hyun’s departure, the show may introduce a new character. Another option is to focus more on Jang Na Ra’s character, Cha Eun Kyung. No official decision has been announced yet.
Meanwhile, Nam Ji Hyun is busy filming a new historical rom-com, Dear Bandit. The drama is set to air in 2026. She stars opposite Moon Sang Min in a story about a thief and a prince who switch souls.
Jang Na Ra has not confirmed her return yet. However, sources say she is positively considering it. Her role as the tough but caring lawyer Cha Eun Kyung was widely praised.
The first season ended with a time jump. Cha Eun Kyung started her own law firm, while Han Yu Ri became a senior lawyer. Their friendship remained strong despite professional rivalry.
Fans are curious how Season 2 will handle Han Yu Ri’s absence. Some hope for a cameo, but Nam Ji Hyun’s schedule makes it unlikely. Others want a new character to join Jang Na Ra.
“The show won’t be the same without Nam Ji Hyun, but Jang Na Ra can carry it forward. Maybe a new dynamic will work.” – Fan Reaction
The supporting cast from Season 1, including Kim Joon Han and P.O, might return. However, no official updates have been shared about their roles.
Good Partner was unique for its focus on divorce cases and female friendships. The “womance” between Jang Na Ra and Nam Ji Hyun was a key reason for its success.
The drama was written by real-life divorce lawyer Choi Yoo Na. This added authenticity to the legal cases. Director Kim Ga Ram, known for Nevertheless, also contributed to its appeal.
Nam Ji Hyun debuted in 2004 with Say You Love Me. Over the years, she has taken diverse roles. Her performance in Good Partner is considered one of her best.
Jang Na Ra has been a top actress for years. Her role in Good Partner showed a new side of her acting skills. Fans are eager to see her back in Season 2.
The production team has not announced a release date yet. However, filming is expected to start soon. More updates will come as casting is finalized.
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