
What a year for Kate Hudson who started off this one as an Academy Award nominee for her role in Song Sung Blue opposite Hugh Jackman. And there’s a distinct possibility and Emmy nomination could be in her future for Running Point, who second season just dropped on Netflix.
The new chapters in the comedy based on the Buss family ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers see Hudson settling more deeply into her character of Isla Gordon, the ambitious, embattled president of a fictional pro basketball team, the Los Angeles Waves, whose personal and professional lives are constantly colliding.
Season 2 wastes no time shaking Isla’s hard-earned authority, especially fraught regarding her brother Cam’s role in the organization. It’s a move that re-ignites the show’s central tension: how Isla is perceived versus who she knows herself to be.
Before the new season dropped, Hudson spoke with entertainment reporters about how the family and organizational dynamic fuels a faster, looser, and even more playful season, all inside the relentless pressure of staying on top in a win-or-lose sports world.
Offscreen, the series has become something of a family itself. Hudson, who also serves as an executive producer, describes a set that mirrors the show’s chaotic warmth—fast-paced, collaborative, and filled with actors who thrive on each other’s energy. With returning favorites and standout dynamics—especially Isla’s bond with Ali (Brenda Song)—Season 2 doubles down on what makes Running Point click: sharp comedy, messy relationships, and a whole lot of heart.
This is your first time returning to a character for a second season. What was that experience like?
Kate It was really nice, actually. You don’t have to lay all the foundation again—you can just hit the ground running. I went back and watched Season 1, and it reminded me how fast the show moves. That’s what you want in comedy—it should feel like a breeze. And honestly, getting back with the cast, especially the brothers, immediately drops you back into it. We have such a great dynamic and genuinely love working together.
How does Cam’s return shake things up for Isla this season?
Well—he’s sitting in *my* seat! It really puts Isla on her toes again. It brings back that family dynamic where she’s constantly battling how others see her versus how she sees herself. That tension is always there, and it makes for a really fun season.
The show moves at a rapid pace. What’s it like filming something that fast?
It’s intense—we’re shooting 10 or 11 pages a day sometimes. But we’re in very capable hands. The writers and showrunners are so dialed in that it actually feels like we’re moving at the same pace as the show itself. It’s a busy set—no one’s waiting around.
Isla and Ali’s friendship is a standout. What makes that dynamic work?
Brenda is just incredible—so fast, so funny, so professional. And what I love this season is we explore what it’s like to work for your best friend. How do you advocate for yourself in that situation? At the core, though, the show is about love. No matter how messy things get, these characters really care about each other.
The series blends family and business. Why do audiences connect to that?
There’s something very real about it. People always say don’t go into business with family—but so many do. If it works, it’s incredibly powerful. If it doesn’t, it can go very wrong. That tension is relatable.
The show is set in a high-stakes sports world. What does it say about staying on top—especially for women?
It takes a lot—ambition, focus, resilience. And honestly, probably double the effort. There are still systemic things at play that people don’t always recognize. And in sports, there’s only one goal: winning. That adds a whole other level of pressure.
How does this role compare to your own career in Hollywood?
I’ve never felt competitive in acting—it’s just not that kind of industry for me. But the dysfunction? The high stakes? The pressure? That all feels very familiar.
What makes Running Point unique?
When we started, there was no clear demographic. It’s a female-led comedy in a male sports world, with family drama and romance—it didn’t fit into a box. And now it reaches everyone. That’s the dream, to make something that truly connects across generations.
You do a lot of physical comedy this season. What’s your approach?
Honestly? Just hoping I don’t get hurt. But I love it—it’s like choreography. I’m a very physical actor, so it’s a natural part of my process.
Any standout behind-the-scenes moments?
Oh my God—Scott MacArthur accidentally knocked a glass door completely off its hinges. It shattered everywhere. It was shocking… and also kind of hilarious. We’re a pretty naughty group.
What keeps you coming back to this show?
The people. It’s a true ensemble. Everyone brings their A-game because they *want* to be there. It’s collaborative in the best way, and that energy shows on screen. I just hope we get to keep going—I’d love a Season 3.