‘The Lowdown’ Creator Sterlin Harjo on Character Decisions and Season 2
Sterlin Harjo, known for his work as the creator, writer, director, and executive producer of the comedy series Reservation Dogs, shared insights about his new project, The Lowdown. Harjo’s previous experience on Reservation Dogs, which followed four Indigenous teens in Oklahoma, boosted his confidence, allowed creative experimentation, and attracted actors eager to collaborate.
About The Lowdown
The Lowdown centers on citizen journalist Lee Raybon, portrayed by Ethan Hawke, who is also an executive producer. Lee, a self-described "truthstorian" based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, investigates the mysterious death of Dale Washberg, the family's black sheep, played by Tim Blake Nelson. The investigation draws Lee into a complex web involving Dale’s older brother Donald (Kyle MacLachlan), his widow Betty Jo (Jeanna Tripplehorn), a white supremacist church leader (Paul Sparks), and a private investigator (Keith David).
Character Dynamics and Challenges
Though Lee is fundamentally a good man with noble intentions, his tendency to attract danger and get into physical confrontations threatens to let down his daughter Francis (Ryan Kiera Armstrong).
Influences and Background
Harjo also discussed the films that have inspired his creative work and mentioned a course he took on David Lynch at the University of Oklahoma, which impacted his artistic approach.
[Editor's note: The following contains spoilers for The Lowdown.]
Author’s summary: Sterlin Harjo’s new series The Lowdown explores complex family secrets through the eyes of a determined journalist in Tulsa, blending thoughtful storytelling with personal and creative growth.