It’s been a good week, a great month and a fantastic year for Nic Pizzolatto; the True Detective writer received critical acclaim for his tense, part-procedural mostly-character-study, 8-part drama, which has culminated in a strong showing in this year’s Emmy nominations.

True DetectiveMatthew Mcconaughey and Woody Harrelson find their names on the Emmy nomination list

And while season 1 of the HBO drama, starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson – who will (minor spoiler) duke it out again for the Best Actor in a Drama nod come August) – is gearing up for The Emmys following a slew of nominations, Season 2’s cast is soon to become public news. 

More: True Detective And House Of Cards Lead Emmy Nominations

After months of speculation surrounding who will star in the high anticipated follow up season, brought about via the show’s ‘anthology’ style, meaning McConaughey and Harrelson aren’t coming back, we’re due to be enlightened next week. Frontrunners included Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain. The former still has an outside chance; the latter ruled herself out emphatically.

We already know that season 2 will focus on America’s transport system and its “occult” history, and will feature strong female characters. We also know that director Cary Fukunaga, who presided over every single episode of season 1, is coming back to executive produce. In case you needed reminding, he was responsible for this shot. 

Programming president Michael Lombardo has promised “at least some” announcements over the next week. “It will not be long before it’s all coming out,” he said at the Television Critics Association summer press tour. “I think the people we will cast will be well known names but that wasn’t our ambition (in season one). I think you’ll be pleased with the show.”

Lombardo also praised the “incredibly talented” Pizzolatto, adding: “I think great writing attracts great actors. I think we decided early on to free ourselves of the idea of a 'star' and lean into great acting.”