Netflix series returns with more laughs, heartbreak, and self-discovery as Mavis Beaumont reclaims her voice—and her joy—in the Eternal City.
I continue to root for the success of Netflix’s “Survival of the Thickest” led by the incomparable Michelle Buteau, who doesn’t just star—she owns every moment. As Mavis Beaumont, she delivers a performance bursting with self-love, flaw-filled charm, and undeniable main character energy, all with a sassy wink that makes her irresistible.
Season One ended with a bold leap: Mavis, still recovering from her long, complicated relationship with Jacque (Taylor Selé), took a literal and emotional flight—straight to Rome, to pursue something new with the deeply devoted Luca (Marouane Zotti). A swing that big could only land in one of two ways. And so, Season Two opens with Mavis standing at Luca’s doorstep, heart in hand, nerves rattling like a cat on a rooftop in a windstorm.
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Luca, however, hasn’t forgotten the heartbreak. And honestly, who could blame him? Mavis is gloriously messy—emphasis on the capital M. She admits it, wears it, and stirs up tension the moment she arrives. Her attempt to win Luca over includes a food-fueled charm offensive: grocery shopping through Roman markets, savoring her first gelato (a life experience we should all have), and trying to cook her way back into his heart.
But winning over Luca’s tight-knit circle proves harder than learning Italian. His sister Gabriella (Monya Tebji) isn’t convinced, and thanks to Google Translate, Mavis finds out exactly how much skepticism is in the air. Still, with the support of her best friend Marley (Tasha Smith), who reminds her that she’s “too cute, too beautiful, too special to be putting up with any of this bullshit,” Mavis presses on.
Even after a picturesque day touring Rome, Luca decides to trust his gut—and breaks it off. Another heartbreak for Mavis. And yet, it’s not a defeat. Her effort to fight for love, despite the risk, reaffirms her growth and self-worth.
Buteau’s performance makes all of this work. Few actors could make a character as flighty and chaotic as Mavis feel this grounded, this real, and this lovable. That’s the brilliance of Survival of the Thickest. It invites us to watch a woman stumble, fall, and rise again—flawed, funny, and completely herself.
Season Two’s eight episodes are deeply satisfying, especially the finale, “It’s Not a Mo’ment, It’s a Movement, Bitch.” It’s a reminder that Mavis is not the typical leading lady. She’s thick, fierce, and fully embracing herself. And importantly, her body is far from the most interesting thing about her.
This is Michelle Buteau’s second moment—and we’re lucky to witness it.
Michelle Buteau’s “Survival of the Thickest” Season Two, now playing on Netflix.
