“Luke Cage” has undergone a major behind-the-scenes makeover. According to blackfilm.com, the Netflix superhero series’ sophomore outing will feature six episodes directed by women — almost half of its 13-episode season. This marks quite the improvement from Season 1, which was helmed entirely by men.
Lucy Liu directed the second season premiere. She’s previously directed episodes of CBS’ Sherlock Holmes-inspired procedural “Elementary,” on which she also stars, and an ep of “Graceland.” Liu also co-directed the feature “Meena.”
“Luke Cage’s” other female directors are Kasi Lemmons (“Eve’s Bayou,” “Shots Fired”), Salli Richardson-Whitfield (“Queen Sugar,” “Scandal”), Neema Barnette (“Being Mary Jane,” “Queen Sugar”), Millicent Shelton (“Runaways,” “Black-ish”), and Steph Green (“You’re the Worst,” “The Americans”).
Based on the Marvel comics, “Luke Cage” stars Mike Colter as the titular character, a black male superhero with unbreakable skin. The series co-stars Rosario Dawson, Alfre Woodard, Simone Missick, and Theo Rossi.
The character of Luke Cage appeared in Season 1 of “Jessica Jones” as a series regular. “Jessica Jones’” entirely women-helmed second season, which bowed in March, may have at least partially inspired “Luke Cage’s” sharp increase in female directors. Neasa Hardiman (“Happy Valley”), Anna Foerster (“Outlander”), Zetna Fuentes (“How to Get Away with Murder”), and Shelton are among “Jessica Jones’” Season 2 helmers.
Season 2 of “Luke Cage” hits Netflix June 22.
