Is there going to be a Wolf Hall Season 3? Everything we know so far

Wolf Hall
Mark Rylance as Thomas Cromwell (Image Source: BBC)

When it comes to some of the famous historical dramas, many fans would recall Wolf Hall, a story adapted from Hilary Mantel's novels. It dives back into the time in May 1536, when Thomas Cromwell (played by Mark Rylance) became a key character in politics and influenced the king.

At the heart of Wolf Hall is the deadly politics played out at King Henry VIII’s court, and this is what Cromwell aims to master. The story follows the execution of the ruler's second wife, followed by Cromwell's rise from a normal individual and son of a blacksmith to a highly intelligent chief minister in England at that time.

Unlike typical political leaders, Cromwell analyzed every aspect of the court and ensured he took every action with precaution. However, it wasn't smooth sailing, as the prime minister ultimately faced a downfall and had to appear at the Tower of London for his trial after a controversial arrest.

Following the success of Season 1, titled "Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies," BBC released chapter two, "The Mirror and the Light," with six episodes. Since the makers have adapted the complete story, fans won't get a Wolf Hall Season 3.

From the beginning, Season 2 was considered an "epic conclusion" of Cromwell's story as it perfectly captured his rise and fall. So, there's no more to tell about the historical figure.

Keep reading for more information.


Why will there be no Wolf Hall Season 3?

Cromwell was beheaded in the end (Image Source: BBC)
Cromwell was beheaded in the end (Image Source: BBC)

Wolf Hall will not continue with a third season because the series has already adapted the entire story written by Hilary Mantel. As previously explained, the British writer penned down the story of Thomas Cromwell in two of her novels, and that marked the conclusion of the former chief minister under King Henry VIII's rule in England.

Another major reason there won’t be a continuation is the passing of Hilary Mantel in 2022. Without any additional books or material from the author, the creators have no new source to adapt.

Although some shows invent new stories to continue after the original material ends, there are no signs that Wolf Hall will take that path. The production has made it clear that Cromwell’s story is now complete.

Also Read: Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light ending explained – Cromwell’s downfall and execution


How did the story wrap up in Wolf Hall Season 2?

youtube-cover

Season 2, officially titled The Mirror and the Light, premiered in the U.S. on PBS Masterpiece on March 23, 2025, after its earlier release in the UK in late 2024. The season is made up of six episodes, each running close to an hour.

The story picks up right where the first season left off. After the execution of Anne Boleyn, Thomas Cromwell's continued climb to the peak of his influence at Henry VIII’s court follows.

However, his success is short-lived. The season shows how Cromwell’s fortunes reverse, leading to his eventual arrest, trial, and execution as the political winds shift against him.

As for the cast, most of the prominent figures like Damian Lewis, Kate Phillips, Jonathan Pryce, and a few more reprised their roles. However, it wasn't easy to produce the show, and director Peter Kosminsky revealed that Rylance helped by agreeing to a pay cut.

Per the RadioTimes, Kosminsky said:

"The Mirror and the Light [Wolf Hall Sason 2]was offered to each streamer in turn. Despite the fact that its first series had won a Golden Globe, they all turned it down."

The director continued:

"It was only possible to begin production when the producer, the writer, the director and the leading actor all gave up a significant proportion of their fees."

Big streamers who had helped fund many other shows turned down the chance to co-produce Season 2. Because of this, Rylance, along with the producer, writer, and Kosminsky himself, gave up a large part of their normal salaries.


Also Read: Fire Country Season 4: Renewal status, potential release window, and everything we know so far

Continue exploring soapCentral for regular infotainment!

Edited by Alisha Khan