EXCLUSIVE: The viral hit digital-first series Celebrity Substitute will return for a second season. The renewal follows a successful Season 1 premiere that drew over 100 million cross-platform views in less than six months. Season 2 is currently in production, with a premiere date TBA.
Created by Julian Shapiro-Barnum (Recess Therapy) and EGOT-winning Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the show features celebrity guests who “substitute teach” their world-famous skills to public elementary school classes of endearing and hilarious kids.
Produced by Pasek & Paul’s Ampersand, Celebrity Substitute “pairs celebrities with public school students for fun, inspiring lessons—and plenty of surprises. A mix of heart, humor, and viral classroom chaos, Celebrity Substitute celebrates creativity, community, and the power of learning,” according to the official logline. Jake Wilson will return as director of the series in Season 2.
In collaboration with Amazon, the series includes a feel-good twist by fulfilling each teacher’s Wish List and providing them with products they actually want and need in their classroom to enhance learning and help students thrive.
Season 1 featured A-list talent, including Oscar nominees Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, Grammy and Oscar winners Billie Eilish and Finneas, Tony, Emmy, and Grammy winner Cynthia Erivo, Grammy and Oscar winner Jon Batiste, pop star and actress Lalisa Manobal, Olympic medalist Jordan Chiles, soccer champions Ali Krieger and Midge Purce, Emmy winner Kenan Thompson., Latin Grammy winner singer Camila Cabello and Grammy winner Jacob Collier.
The first season is coming off two 2025 Webby Award wins – for Best Comedy Series (Video & Film) and Best Longform Branded Content. The series also won the 2025 Digiday Streaming & Video Award for Best Brand Film or Series.
L-R: Jake Wilson, Justin Paul, Julian Shapiro-Barnham, Benj Pasek, Danielle Perelman, Sean Walsh at 2025 Webby Awards
James Hartley
“Making this show has been joyous, rewarding, and so much fun. It’s been a blast getting to create and learn alongside these fantastic guests and kids,” said Shapiro-Barnum. “On top of that, we’ve been able to highlight the wonderful teachers and invaluable work these public schools are doing to nurture so many brilliant young minds. It’s been a dream project through and through.”
The series airs across social media platforms, including YouTube, with 6-12 minute episodes released episodically.
“We could not be more excited to be making Season 2 with Julian and our incredible collaborators, crew, special guests, partners at Amazon and most especially the glorious educators and students who invite us into their schools” said Pasek and Paul.
Amy Powell, head of entertainment marketing at Amazon added: “Celebrity Substitute is one of those rare gems that shows how entertainment can truly make a difference. We’re excited to champion a show that not only brings joy to viewers, but also makes a difference in classrooms across the country. This kind of imaginative, heartfelt content is exactly what lets Amazon connect with our customers – bringing joy and inspiration to make our customers lives better and easier.”
