‘The Lowdown’ Creator Sterlin Harjo on Character’s Finale Choice and Season 2 Plans
Sterlin Harjo, the creator, writer, director, and executive producer of The Lowdown, shared insights about the show’s ending and what’s in store for the next season. He also discussed the movies that shaped his creative vision and a formative class he took on David Lynch at the University of Oklahoma.
Editor’s note: The following contains spoilers for The Lowdown.
Background and Inspiration
Before The Lowdown, Harjo was the showrunner of the acclaimed three-season comedy Reservation Dogs, which followed four Indigenous teens growing up on an Oklahoma reservation. That experience bolstered his confidence, encouraged experimentation, and connected him with many eager collaborators.
The Story of The Lowdown
In The Lowdown, citizen journalist Lee Raybon, portrayed by Ethan Hawke (who also serves as executive producer), calls himself a “truthstorian” in Tulsa, Oklahoma. When he begins investigating the mysterious death of Dale Washberg, the black sheep of the Washberg family played by Tim Blake Nelson, his search for the truth quickly spirals beyond control.
- Dale’s older brother Donald, played by Kyle MacLachlan, becomes a focal point of the inquiry.
- Dale’s widow Betty Jo, portrayed by Jeanna Tripplehorn, is caught in the emotional aftermath.
- A white supremacist church leader, brought to life by Paul Sparks, deepens the tension.
- A private investigator, played by Keith David, adds a layer of mystery.
Main Character and Conflict
Lee, though well-intentioned, has a habit of attracting danger. His reckless pursuit of the truth results in frequent physical and emotional setbacks, straining his relationship with his daughter, Francis (Ryan Kiera Armstrong).
Author’s Summary
The interview reveals how Sterlin Harjo’s creative evolution, bold storytelling, and reflective character arcs define The Lowdown as both an intense mystery and a study of flawed humanity.