[2] The season received positive reviews from television critics,[3] and the premiere episode drew in a total of 3.07 million viewers.

Beginning in July 2013, Michael Vartan was cast in the recurring role of George Heldens, a 40-something divorcée and love interest for Norma.

[10] In August, Kathleen Robertson was cast to recur as Jodi Morgan, Zane's sister, first described as "a smart, sexy businesswoman".

[16] During an interview in March 2014, Highmore and Thieriot revealed that the fight scene between Norman and Dylan left both actors in need of medical attention: "I cut my nose.

The site's consensus reads, "Bates Motel reinvents a classic thriller with believable performances and distinguished writing".