The hauntingly gothic AMC series Mayfair Witches is gearing up for an exciting second season. While it may take creative liberties with Anne Rice’s original novel, Season 1 stands as a beautifully dark and twisted tale that left audiences spellbound. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of New Orleans—America’s epicenter of all things supernatural—the series follows the life of Rowan Mayfair (played by Alexandra Daddario), a seemingly ordinary woman whose life is upended when she discovers her true heritage.
Rowan learns that she belongs to the Mayfair family, a powerful lineage of witches bound to a shape-shifting demon named Lasher (Jack Huston). Lasher has been tied to the family for generations, influencing their lives and sealing their fates. As Rowan grapples with this revelation, she finds herself drawn deeper into a web of family secrets, dark magic, and the sinister connection she now shares with Lasher.
If you need a refresher on the chilling and suspense-filled journey of Season 1, now’s the perfect time to revisit all the horror, drama, and supernatural intrigue that unfolded in the Mayfair family saga. From Rowan’s shocking discovery of her lineage to the eerie presence of Lasher and the cursed legacy of the Mayfairs, Season 1 delivers a gripping mix of gothic horror and emotional depth.
As Season 2 approaches, fans can look forward to more of the dark allure and spine-tingling twists that make Mayfair Witches a standout in the genre.
Mayfair Witches Season 1 recap
The darkly enchanting Mayfair Witches has set the stage for an even more gripping second season, delving deeper into the twisted saga of the Mayfair family and their bond with the demon Lasher. Rowan’s journey begins with the discovery of her biological mother, Deirdre (Cameron Inman as a teen, Annabeth Gish as an adult). Deirdre’s life in the Mayfair mansion is controlled by her domineering aunt Carlotta (Beth Grant), who forbids contact with Lasher. But Deirdre becomes infatuated with Lasher and, in a rebellious moment, conceives a child at a party hosted by her uncle Cortland (Harry Hamlin). Deirdre is later tricked by Carlotta into believing her baby, Rowan, has died.
In modern times, Deirdre is drugged and incapacitated by Carlotta to keep her under control. Rowan’s arrival in New Orleans awakens Deirdre, but before mother and daughter can reunite, Deirdre is tragically murdered.
At Deirdre’s funeral, Rowan meets the sprawling Mayfair clan, including Cortland, his daughter Jojo (Jen Richards), and cousin Tessa (Madison Wolfe). She learns about the family’s magical connection to Lasher and is reluctantly named the designee, the only one able to communicate with the demon. Despite her resistance, Rowan finds herself increasingly drawn to Lasher’s seductive influence.
Rowan finds solace in Ciprien Grieve (Tongayi Chirisa), a member of the Talamasca with the ability to see memories through touch. Ciprien becomes her confidant and love interest, though the shadow of Lasher looms over their relationship. Meanwhile, Ciprien uncovers troubling secrets about his organization and its ties to Lasher’s schemes.
The Origin of the Mayfair Curse
Interwoven flashbacks reveal the origins of the Mayfair witches with Suzanne (Hannah Alline), a 1600s healer in Scotland. Suzanne summons Lasher to avenge her persecution, forging the family’s cursed destiny. A prophecy foretelling the thirteenth witch as the gateway for Lasher’s rebirth looms heavily over Rowan.
Tessa’s kidnapping and death at the hands of witch hunters push Rowan into action. In her rage, Rowan calls upon Lasher to exact vengeance, marking a turning point as she embraces the darkness within her. This unleashes her immense power and solidifies her connection to Lasher.
Rowan’s rapid pregnancy culminates in the birth of Lasher’s physical form, fulfilling the prophecy. She also learns Cortland is her biological grandfather and Deirdre’s rapist, prompting Rowan to use her powers to turn him into a statue. Meanwhile, Ciprien discovers the Talamasca’s role in ensuring Lasher’s reincarnation, deepening the betrayal.
Catch up on Mayfair Witches Season 1, streaming on AMC+ and Netflix in the U.S. Season 2 premieres on January 5 on AMC.