Amazon Renews Benito Skinner’s “Overcompensating” for Second Season

Amazon Prime Video has officially renewed the critically acclaimed college comedy series “Overcompensating” for a second season, following its successful debut earlier this year. The announcement was made on September 10, 2025, just four months after the series’ eight-episode freshman run captivated audiences and garnered widespread praise for its nuanced, humorous, and heartfelt approach to LGBTQ+ themes .

Created by comedian Benito Skinner, who also stars as the show’s lead, “Overcompensating” centers on Benny—a closeted former high school football star and homecoming king—navigating the complexities of freshman year at the fictional Yates University. Drawing on Skinner’s own college experiences, the show explores the intersection of sexuality, masculinity, and the pressure to fit in, all set against the backdrop of contemporary college life .

The first season’s ensemble cast includes Wally Baram as Carmen, a high school outsider determined to reinvent herself at college, Mary Beth Barone as Benny’s supportive older sister Grace, and Adam DiMarco as her charismatic boyfriend Peter. The series was also notable for guest appearances by Charli XCX, who served as executive music producer, and featured supporting roles from Rish Shah, Owen Thiele, Connie Britton, Kyle MacLachlan, and Kaia Gerber .

“Overcompensating” quickly resonated with viewers and critics alike, achieving a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earning accolades for its fresh, intersectional approach to LGBTQ+ coming-of-age stories . The show’s honest portrayal of queer and trans college experiences, its nuanced look at the pressures faced by closeted students, and its willingness to tackle issues such as hookup culture, identity, and self-acceptance have made it a touchstone for a new generation.

Skinner expressed his gratitude following the renewal announcement: “I have been so overwhelmed by the insane response to the show, and feel so damn lucky to go back to Yates University with Amazon MGM Studios, A24, Strong Baby, and this legendary cast for Season 2!! PLAY SUPER BASS :)” .

Vernon Sanders, Global Head of Television at Amazon MGM Studios, also highlighted the show’s impact: “We look forward to our global Prime Video customers enjoying more of Benito’s captivating and bold storytelling in the second season of ‘Overcompensating.’ Working alongside the talented teams from A24 and Strong Baby has been a joy for everyone involved, and we are excited to see what hilarious moments Benito has planned for Season Two” .

The renewal of “Overcompensating” is being widely celebrated by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and fans, who have praised the series for moving beyond stereotypes and offering multidimensional queer and transgender characters. The show’s willingness to address the messy realities of coming out, the pressure to overcompensate in heteronormative spaces, and the importance of chosen family has resonated deeply with viewers across the LGBTQ+ spectrum .

Media scholars and advocates note that the show’s success is emblematic of a broader shift in television, as major platforms increasingly seek out projects that reflect the diversity and complexity of real-world LGBTQ+ experiences. “Overcompensating” stands out for its mix of comedy and drama, its honest depiction of college life, and its commitment to centering queer voices both on and off screen .