The wait is finally over for fans of the hit Netflix series Wednesday, as the first half of season 2 has arrived, bringing with it a slew of new mysteries, characters, and intrigue. However, in a surprise move, the streaming giant held off on lifting the review embargo until the show's release, leaving fans and critics alike wondering what to expect from the new season. Now that the reviews are in, it's clear that Wednesday has not only lived up to its predecessor but has actually improved upon it, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 82%, up from 73% in season 1. This is a rare feat, as many shows struggle to maintain their critical acclaim beyond their initial season, with some, like Squid Game, experiencing a decline in ratings over time.

The improvement in Wednesday's Rotten Tomatoes score is a testament to the show's ability to evolve and grow, while still maintaining the dark, quirky charm that made it a hit with audiences in the first place. The show's creator, Tim Burton, and star, Jenna Ortega, have clearly worked to build upon the foundation established in season 1, and it's paid off. While it's still early days for audience scores, with less than 50 reviews in, it's likely that fans will be just as enthusiastic about the new season as critics are. After all, Wednesday season 1 set records for the service, and it's likely that season 2 will do the same, even if it doesn't quite reach the same heights.

One of the key factors that could impact Wednesday's viewership numbers is the decision to split the season into two parts, with a month-long wait between the first and second batches of episodes. While this may be frustrating for some fans, who may choose to wait until the whole season is available to binge, it's also a clever move by Netflix to keep the show in the public consciousness for longer. By releasing the season in two parts, Netflix can generate buzz and excitement twice, rather than all at once, which could help to maintain interest and keep the show top of mind for fans.

The success of Wednesday is not just a testament to the show's quality, but also to the power of Netflix's marketing machine. The streaming giant has been able to create a cultural phenomenon around the show, with its characters, quotes, and memes becoming a part of the zeitgeist. As a result, Wednesday has become a cultural touchstone, with a dedicated and passionate fan base that will likely follow the show wherever it goes. With the show already pre-greenlit for season 3, it's clear that Netflix is committed to keeping the series going for as long as possible, and with its built-in audience and critical acclaim, it's likely that Wednesday will continue to be a major player in the world of streaming for years to come.

The question on everyone's mind now is whether Wednesday can replicate the insane viewership highs of season 1. While some shows, like Stranger Things and Bridgerton, have been able to grow their audiences over time, others, like Squid Game, have struggled to maintain their initial momentum. Given the show's quality and the excitement surrounding its release, it's likely that Wednesday will do well, but the split-season format may ultimately impact its ability to reach the same heights as season 1. Regardless, with its critical acclaim, cultural impact, and dedicated fan base, Wednesday is sure to remain a major force in the world of entertainment for the foreseeable future.

In conclusion, the arrival of Wednesday season 2 has been a major event in the world of entertainment, with the show's improved Rotten Tomatoes score and cultural impact cementing its place as one of the most exciting and talked-about series on television. While the decision to split the season into two parts may have some fans waiting until the whole season is available to binge, it's a clever move by Netflix to keep the show in the public consciousness for longer. With its built-in audience, critical acclaim, and cultural relevance, Wednesday is sure to continue to be a major player in the world of streaming, and its success will likely be studied by industry insiders and fans alike for years to come.