Heads up: Spoilers ahead! Season 2 of 'Big Little Lies' is finally here, and we’re back in the picturesque but complicated world of Monterey. With so much happening in this California town, let’s break it down for you. One of the biggest questions everyone’s asking is: Who is Meryl Streep’s character, Mary Louise Wright? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this intriguing new addition to the series.
Who is Mary Louise Wright?
Mary Louise is the mother of Perry Wright, played by Alexander Skarsgård, whose death at the end of season 1 set the stage for the gripping second season. Season 2 focuses on the aftermath of Perry’s death, a story that’s deeply intertwined with the lives of the Monterey Five: Madeline (Reese Witherspoon), Celeste (Nicole Kidman), Jane (Shailene Woodley), Renata (Laura Dern), and Bonnie (Zoë Kravitz). These five women were the ones who, in a moment of chaos, pushed Perry down the stairs during a school fundraiser. Now, they’re living with the weight of their secret, and Mary Louise’s arrival adds a whole new layer of tension.
What’s Her Relationship with the Other Women?
Mary Louise’s presence in Monterey is bound to stir up trouble for the Monterey Five. She’s moved in with Celeste to help care for her grandsons after Perry’s tragic "accident." But things are far from peaceful. Celeste is plagued by nightmares, screaming out words like “rape” and “I’m going to f–king kill someone,” which Mary Louise overhears. This dynamic alone sets the stage for some serious tension. Plus, Mary Louise’s interactions with Madeline have already become legendary—clashes that hint at bigger conflicts ahead. If Mary Louise keeps prying and poking around, it’s only a matter of time before her curiosity leads to trouble.
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Why is She in Monterey, and What’s Her Motive?
Mary Louise’s presence in Monterey is no surprise—after all, any mother would want to be there for her family after such a devastating loss. Beyond grieving for Perry, she’s also there to support her grandsons, who recently lost their father. It seems she’s not planning on leaving anytime soon. In fact, she’s actively looking for a place to stay, even if it means moving out of Celeste’s home. Her determination to stay involved suggests she has more than just grief driving her actions.
How’s She Holding Up Emotionally?
Mary Louise is understandably devastated by the loss of her son. In one particularly powerful scene, she expresses her grief during dinner. When Celeste scolds her sons for fighting, Mary Louise empathizes with their anger, calling Perry "amazing" and lamenting how "unfair" it is that he’s gone. She even admits feeling frustrated that her friends’ “mediocre” sons are still alive while her own son is dead. This raw honesty culminates in a heart-wrenching scream, leaving Celeste visibly shaken. It’s clear Mary Louise is grappling with a whirlwind of emotions beneath her composed exterior.
What Can We Expect from Her This Season?
The upcoming episodes promise plenty of drama involving Mary Louise. A teaser hints at betrayal among the Monterey Five, who are increasingly anxious about keeping their secret. Mary Louise, meanwhile, seems to be building a connection with Celeste’s kids, declaring, “Grief, it’s meant to be shared.” Despite her words, their relationship remains fraught with tension. The other women grow suspicious of her motives, with Renata remarking, “I think she’s been watching.” The biggest moment comes when Mary Louise challenges Celeste, accusing her of planning to leave Perry the night he died—a truth that hits uncomfortably close to home. As the season progresses, it’s clear Mary Louise will be a force to reckon with.
It looks like we’re just beginning to uncover the depth of Meryl Streep’s character, and it’s already captivating us.
Big Little Lies airs Sunday nights at 9 p.m. ET on HBO.
