It has been a year since the death of Joe Carroll, but Ryan Hardy has not been able to relax since closing the case on the infamous serial killer.

However, the anniversary of Carroll's (James Purefoy) death will kick off a series of murders' that turns Hardy's (Kevin Bacon) life on its head. Is Carroll back? Is there a new player on the scene? Or is a little bit of both?

The answer seems to be more in the "a little bit of both" category. A group of followers lead by the homicidal Luke (Sam Underwood) will be the catalyst for Joe's return, according to TV Guide. Apparently, this new psycho will be even more disturbing than his predecessor.

"With regards to last year and everything that happened with all the brutality and the horrific events he witnessed and was a part of, that's nothing compared to what happens this year for him," said executive producer Kevin Williamson, according to E!. "He really does get pushed to the absolute limits of his sanity and his ability to cope with something."

The season 2 plot will be helped along by the introduction of several other new characters. Playing on the side of the law is Max (Jessica Stroup), Hardy's niece, while Lily Gray (Connie Nielsen) will provide a possible love interest for Hardy, according to Entertainment Weekly.

The Following will air a preview of season 2 on Jan. 19 after the NFC Championship game and will air the series premiere at 9 p.m. ET on Jan. 27 on Fox.

Tags: The Following fox television