Ben McKenzie storms back as Sheriff Jim Wade, shaking Sheriff Country

Ben McKenzie will guest star in the Season 2 premiere of CBS’s cop drama *Sheriff Country*, set to air on October 9. The actor, who first met co‑star Morena Baccarin on the set of *Gotham*, is slated to appear in at least two episodes, with more appearances likely.

At a press event in Toronto, Baccarin teased McKenzie's return, saying, “He’s here now, he comes back, spoiler alert.”

The dynamic between the two stars has shifted since their days on *Gotham*.

In that series, McKenzie was the boss and Baccarin the underling; now Baccarin heads the call sheet and describes the new arrangement as “better.” She added that working together again feels “really fun” and has made her “very happy.” Their off‑screen partnership adds another layer to their on‑screen chemistry in *Sheriff Country*.

The show, originally titled *Sheriff Country*, is reportedly rebranding to *Sheriffs Country* for Season 2. The title change reflects the expanded focus on multiple sheriffs, including Baccarin’s character Mickey Fox and McKenzie’s newly introduced Sheriff Jim Wade.

The shift signals a broader exploration of law‑enforcement dynamics across neighboring counties.

## Background & Context

*Sheriff Country* spun off from *Fire Country*, following the adventures of Sheriff Mickey Fox.

In Season 2, McKenzie’s Sheriff Wade is called in to assist Fox and brings his own secrets to the table. , Wade and Fox “came up together,” are roughly the same age, but Wade has served as sheriff for ten years while Fox has only been in the role for two. This seniority gives Wade a mentor‑like role, with Fox leaning on him for advice.

Lopez also noted that the two share a long personal history that isn’t romantic. “He’s [Mickey’s daughter] Skye’s godfather,” Lopez explained, adding that in recent years their contact had dwindled.

“Now in Season 2, work and life are going to throw them back into each other’s lives.” The revelation hints at a complex web of loyalty and duty that will unfold over the season.

The show’s creative team emphasized that while Fox and Wade have a deep bond, it won’t be romantic.

“We’ll find out that they share a long personal history,” Lopez said, “but that’s not to say romantic because it’s not.” This clarification sets expectations for viewers familiar with their *Gotham* romance, steering focus toward professional and familial ties instead.

## What People Are Saying

Baccarin shared her excitement about working with McKenzie again. “I was giddy actually, it was really fun to work together,” she told reporters. “I like saying that last time we worked together, he was the boss, and now I’m the boss, so it’s better.

But it does make me very happy.” She praised the partnership as a source of “real kick” for fans and described their shared commute and dinner time as “very spoiled.”

Baccarin also reflected on her personal life in Toronto. “I live a very lonely existence here in Toronto, I’m just literally working every single day and going home to a very empty house — not that you need to feel sorry for me, I’m very grateful for it,” she said.

“But it’s been really lovely to go to work together, take the same car, go home, talk about it, have dinner; I feel very spoiled.” Her remarks illustrate how the on‑screen collaboration blurs into everyday life.

Meanwhile, Max Thieriot hinted at a new crossover couple that could connect *Fire Country* and *Sheriffs Country*. “I’m gonna drop this bomb but only hint at it.

There may be some cross‑show… that takes place this season as well,” Thieriot said, pausing before adding, “So I’m not gonna say who those two people are, but there might be something there that everybody’s gonna get to see.” The comment stirs anticipation without revealing specifics, keeping viewers intrigued.

## What Happens Next

Season 2 of *Sheriffs Country* will begin on October 9 with McKenzie’s Sheriff Wade making his debut. Viewers can expect at least two episodes featuring the actor, with additional appearances likely as the storylines deepen.

The partnership between Fox and Wade is set to explore themes of mentorship, duty, and the weight of long‑standing relationships within law enforcement.

The series will also navigate Fox’s personal journey.

Baccarin said, “Given that my last boyfriend didn’t work out so good for us, I think Mickey’s feeling a little burned at the moment, it’s all about getting her life back on track.” She added that while a love interest may appear later, it will come “a little bit further in the future for Mickey.” This suggests that Fox’s narrative arc will focus more on professional growth than romantic entanglement.

Beyond the main plot, the show’s creators plan to weave in cross‑show elements hinted at by Thieriot. Though details remain secret, the potential crossover promises to enrich both *Fire Country* and *Sheriffs Country* fanbases.

As Season 2 unfolds, viewers will see how these intertwined storylines converge while staying true to each series’ distinct tone.

The rebranding to *Sheriffs Country*, the introduction of Sheriff Jim Wade, and the continued focus on Mickey Fox’s career promise a fresh chapter for the franchise.

Fans of both *Fire Country* and *Gotham* can look forward to new dynamics, unexpected collaborations, and a deeper dive into the lives of those who keep the peace on the front lines.