The second season of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic aired from September2011 to April2012. Like most seasons, it lasted for a total of 26 episodes, spanning episodes 27-52. The "era" of season 2 would prove to be among the most influential for the franchise, as it marked the series branching out into other mediums such as books, comics and more expansive toylines.
Although Lauren Faust left the show after season 1, she remained active in the production of season 2 as a 'consulting producer', to the point where several staff members claimed that it was like she never left at all.[citation needed] To promote the season, Hasbro aired a marathon event known as the "Mare-a-Thon" on The Hub leading up to its premiere.[citation needed]