‘The Lowdown’ Creator Sterlin Harjo on Finale and Season 2
Sterlin Harjo, creator, writer, director, and executive producer of FX’s The Lowdown, shares insights into the show's finale decisions and upcoming plans for season 2. Harjo, who was the showrunner for the acclaimed three-season comedy series Reservation Dogs, credits his experience on that show for boosting his confidence and creative freedom.
Background and Influences
Harjo discusses how his time at the University of Oklahoma, including a course on David Lynch, shaped his storytelling approach. He also mentions several films that have deeply influenced his work.
About The Lowdown
The series centers on Lee Raybon (Ethan Hawke), a citizen journalist and self-proclaimed “truthstorian” in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Lee investigates the suspicious death of Dale Washberg (Tim Blake Nelson), the black sheep of the family. As Lee digs deeper, his pursuit brings him into contact with Dale's older brother Donald (Kyle MacLachlan), widow Betty Jo (Jeanna Tripplehorn), a white supremacist church leader (Paul Sparks), and a determined private investigator (Keith David).
“Lee is basically a good guy with his heart in the right place, but his knack for attracting danger and getting himself beaten up puts him at risk for disappointing his daughter Francis.” – Sterlin Harjo
Finale Decision and Character Development
Harjo explains the motivations behind key character choices in the finale, highlighting the complexity of Lee’s struggle to balance his quest for truth with his responsibilities as a father. This conflict adds depth to the narrative and reflects real human challenges.
Plans for Season 2
Looking ahead, Harjo plans to expand the story's scope, delving further into Tulsa’s undercurrents and the characters’ complicated lives while maintaining the show's tone of dark humor and social commentary.
Cast Highlights
- Ethan Hawke as Lee Raybon
- Tim Blake Nelson as Dale Washberg
- Kyle MacLachlan as Donald Washberg
- Jeanna Tripplehorn as Betty Jo
- Paul Sparks as the white supremacist church leader
- Keith David as private investigator
- Ryan Kiera Armstrong as Francis, Lee’s daughter
The show combines mystery, family drama, and social issues, anchored by strong performances and Harjo’s distinctive vision.
Author’s summary: Sterlin Harjo brings thoughtful storytelling and complex characters to The Lowdown, setting the stage for a compelling second season rooted in truth and personal struggle.