Rainbow Wedell joins Pop Culture Unplugged to discuss School Spirits Season 2, the evolution of Claire, her dream ghost interactions, and what fans can expect from the rest of the season. Once seen as the quintessential “mean girl,” Claire’s layers have been peeled back, revealing a far more complex and vulnerable character.
Fan Reactions and Claire’s Growth
Rainbow is thrilled with the fan reactions so far, especially seeing how engaged viewers are with theories and discussions about the show.
“I love looking at all of the theories online. Everyone is so invested in it, and I’m really happy they are because the story is so well done.”
A major shift in Season 2 is Claire’s character arc. In Season 1, she was known for being guarded and, at times, manipulative. But this season, we see her breaking down those barriers.
“She’s been lied to a lot in her life—by her parents, her friends, even Xavier and Maddie. So, she had to put up this big wall, which is what you saw in Season 1. Season 2 is her chipping away at those walls and letting people in, which is really tough for her.”
Through unexpected friendships with Simon, Nicole, and Xavier, Claire finally finds a support system that isn’t based on superficiality.
From Mean Girl to Fan Favorite?
Claire’s reputation has shifted dramatically since the first season, and Rainbow hopes fans see her in a new light.
“The show does an incredible job at taking stereotypical characters—the jock, the goth, the cheerleader—and making them so much more than just those tropes. Claire is definitely one of the most layered and damaged ones.”
But could there still be more secrets lurking beneath the surface?
“I think she might have more secrets—who knows?”
Claire’s Thoughts on Maddie’s Return—Or Is It Janet?
One of Season 2’s biggest twists is the revelation that Janet has taken over Maddie’s body. Claire, being more removed from the ghostly group, is one of the first to sense something isn’t right.
“She doesn’t believe it right away, of course. I mean, being told that your friend is a ghost isn’t something she’d immediately accept. But she does get convinced and joins the gang, which I’m really excited about.”
Claire’s detachment from the emotional history between Maddie and the others allows her to see the situation more clearly.
“She realizes that it’s Janet, not Maddie. Xavier, Simon, and Nicole have an emotional tie to Maddie, so it’s harder for them. Claire doesn’t hesitate to take risks that might hurt Janet.”
The show’s haunting imagery has added to the eerie tension, especially the moment where Janet, in Maddie’s body, lays in her own grave while her childhood home burns down.
“Oh my God, I love that scene! Jess and Josh were phenomenal. That house was a nightmare to shoot at because it was so hot and covered in debris, but it looks amazing.”
Claire’s Relationships: Xavier, Nicole, and More
A major question this season is whether Claire still has feelings for Xavier. Rainbow thinks their bond is deeper than just romance.
“I think Claire really, really loves Xavier and needs him in her life. She fell in love with him because he saw a different side of her, but I think she’s realizing she loves him in a platonic way.”
Meanwhile, her unexpected friendship with Nicole has become a highlight of Season 2.
“They’re surprisingly similar. Nicole doesn’t deal with BS, and she’s completely honest—even telling Claire she doesn’t like her to her face. Claire respects that because she’s the same way.”
And what does she think about Xavier and Nicole unknowingly messaging each other online?
“I love it! I actually ship it so much. There’s one scene in Episode 4 that’s just so good. I was watching it like, ‘Oh, I love these two together!’ But we’ll see where it goes.”
Does Claire Feel Guilty About Maddie?
Fans have speculated about how much guilt Claire carries regarding Maddie’s disappearance. According to Rainbow, it’s a huge burden.
“1000%. She even says in the first episode that if Maddie could back a truck into Xavier after what he did, she’d probably do worse to her. Their friendship ended when they were kids, and she ignored her for years. I think Claire feels incredibly guilty.”
Would there be a chance to repair things if Maddie gets her body back?
“I really hope so. Friendship breakups are the worst, even more than romantic ones. If they can reconcile, that would be a beautiful arc.”
Claire’s Ghostly Future?
Rainbow surprised fans by admitting she wouldn’t mind if Claire died and joined the ghost crew.
“I want Claire to die, honestly! The ghosts have so much fun.”
And if someone had to take over Claire’s body?
“Wally. I think that would be hilarious. But if Claire could take over someone’s body, I would’ve picked Dawn before she crossed over.”
Favorite Scene and What’s Next?
Rainbow teased that Episode 5 contains some of her favorite moments:
“Episode 5 is my favorite episode. There are two really juicy scenes I can’t wait for fans to see.”
As for Season 3, there are early conversations, but nothing official yet.
“We had a FaceTime call yesterday and talked about it. I really hope we get another season, especially since Vancouver is beautiful to shoot in the summer.”
And what would she want for Claire’s future?
“I’d love to see her take things less seriously and continue being open. Maybe she keeps doing her extracurriculars but learns to have fun with them.”
Final Thoughts
Rainbow Wedell’s portrayal of Claire has evolved tremendously in School Spirits Season 2, and fans are taking notice. From mean girl to a layered, vulnerable character, Claire has proven she’s more than just a stereotype.
With twists, heartbreak, and ghostly encounters still to come, fans will have to wait and see what’s next for Claire and the rest of the gang.
Be sure to catch School Spirits streaming now, and follow Rainbow Wedell for updates!
What do you think of Claire’s transformation this season? Would you want to see her as a ghost in the future?\