Shanola Hampton on the Emotional Turmoil and Redemption in Found Season 2

FOUND — “Missing While Bait” Episode 201 — Pictured: Shanola Hampton as Gabi — (Photo by: Matt Miller/NBC)

Found Season 2 is finally here, and the stakes have never been higher. Following last season’s dramatic cliffhanger, this season takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster as Gabi Mosley, played by Shanola Hampton, navigates a complicated relationship with her mentor and kidnapper, Hugh “Sir” Evans, portrayed by Mark-Paul Gosselaar. Gabi is not only battling her own demons but also attempting to regain the trust and forgiveness of her team, who distanced themselves after learning that she had kidnapped Sir and kept him hidden in her basement. In a gripping twist, Gabi leveraged this situation to help solve other kidnappings, leaving everyone grappling with conflicting emotions.

During a recent interview, we spoke with Hampton about the intricate dynamics between Gabi and Sir, and how their relationship deepens in this season. “Mark and I never really discuss our characters,” she explains. “What I love about our dynamic is the organic connection we established from the start, and we try to maintain that so the audience can feel it too.”

Hampton emphasizes the emotional journey Gabi undergoes this season. “There wasn’t much conversation,” she says, “but I really wanted to capture what it feels like to be fragile and vulnerable. Gabi had this armor in Season 1, but that broke when she had to tell the truth. Now, everyone’s angry at her, and she’s no longer the untouchable ‘Gabby, who can do no wrong.’ This is a new experience for her, and I wanted it to feel authentic.”

FOUND — “Missing While Bait” Episode 201 — Pictured: (l-r) Brett Dalton as Detective Mark Trent, Anisa Nyell Johnson as Detective Shaker, Karan Oberoi as Dahn, Shanola Hampton as Gabi, Kelli Williams as Margaret — (Photo by: Matt Miller/NBC)

The Intricacies of Trust and Power

When asked about the complexity of Sir’s character, Hampton notes, “Oh, absolutely. It’s intentional. If I think about it from a fan’s perspective, I believe he could’ve left that basement months ago. But he was too consumed by the idea of the family he thought he could build with Gabby. He stayed, not because he was trapped, but for the connection. He’s a genius—a mad one, but a genius nonetheless.”

Despite the emotional turmoil, Gabi remains stylish and well-put-together, a point that Hampton finds interesting. “It’s funny; this question keeps coming up, and I love that it does. Gabi has lost control of her life, but what she could control was her physical appearance. Her need to always look put together is almost like a mental obsession. It’s not just about vanity; it’s about regaining a sense of power. After being kidnapped, she was conditioned to present as composed and flawless. Now, it’s a coping mechanism—something she can control.”

The struggle for trust continues as Gabi’s team grapples with their feelings about her. “Who really wants to be in that room celebrating?” Hampton reflects. “The entire team’s purpose is clear: we’re coming together to find and bring people home. But make no mistake—that’s still work. And we’re frustrated with you. Yes, it’s intentional. Right now, it’s us against you.”

Past Characters, Present Consequences

This season introduces characters from the past of each teammate, impacting the story significantly. Hampton remarks, “All of the characters that pop up in the past play a crucial role in the storytelling. There’s not one that’s insignificant; it’s all very much by design.” She particularly highlights Lacey’s mother, whose relationship with Gabi offers a glimmer of hope and forgiveness amid the chaos. “There’s nothing you can do that would make me love you more or less,” she notes, emphasizing the love that Gabi needs right now.

Reflecting on what she learned from this season, Hampton shares, “One of the statements that really impacted my life is that your biggest mistake doesn’t define you. It allows for empathy towards others who may not have made the best choices. So yeah, your biggest mistake doesn’t define you. Plus, I’ve seen Gabby in action—she’s got it together.”

FOUND — “Missing While Bait” Episode 201 — Pictured: Shanola Hampton as Gabi — (Photo by: Matt Miller/NBC)

Dream Collaborations and Personal Growth

As the conversation shifts to potential guest stars for the next season, Hampton lights up at the thought of working with Idris Elba. “I really want to work with him. I don’t even care about the role; I just have an idea. Octavia Spencer would be incredible as Gabi’s aunt, and Nicole Beharie could come in as her sister or a cousin. She’s one of the most underrated actresses out there. I’d love to see her play a long-lost best friend or even a rival—something impactful that the story really needs. Honestly, I just want to share the screen with her. She’s amazing.”

When asked what advice she would give to Gabi, Hampton thoughtfully replies, “I would tell Gabi that she’s done an incredible job healing others. But to truly move forward, she needs to focus on healing herself. That means confronting the dark places she may have avoided while helping others. Only by doing this can she experience love, a fulfilling life, and meaningful relationships—without the weight of past baggage and choices holding her back.”

Found Season 2 is packed with exposed secrets, emotional journeys, and exciting chases that are sure to satisfy fans of the first season. This season primarily focuses on forgiveness and redemption—can Gabi achieve both? Can she continue to lead her crisis management firm while navigating her tumultuous relationship with Sir and a divided team? Tune in to Found Season 2 Thursday 10/3 10pm ET on NBC to find out.