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1818, the Odéon was burnt down a second time. "At half past four, the roof beams were destroyed and collapsed with a tremendous crash. The four walls, main foyer, corridors, grand staircases, adjoining stairs and dressing rooms were saved." For the next eight months the actors performed at the Opéra Comique.

The theatre was rebuilt under the supervision of Baraguey, architect to the Upper House. It was redesigned, a fireproof metal curtain was installed and in September 1819, the theatre opened with the new name of the "Second Théâtre Français". Louis XVIII decreed that the Odéon be part of the Comédie Française, "performing tragedies, comedies and dramas which comprise the repertoire of the Théâtre Français and are in the public domain, as well as plays of a similar style which will be submitted by the authors." This was the second period when Picard was director of the theatre, the man referred to as the "little 19th century Molière", who remained there until 1821, directing the theatre with great flair and success.