"American Primeval" Brings the Raw, Lawless Wilderness of the American West to Netflix

A Raw, Survival Drama Set in the Wild West

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the unforgiving wilderness of the American West. Netflix’s upcoming limited series, "American Primeval," takes viewers back to 1857, where violence, survival, and lawlessness reign supreme. Created by Pete Berg (known for Friday Night Lights and Lone Survivor), with Mark L. Smith (writer of The Revenant) penning the script, this six-episode series promises an intense, heart-pounding exploration of the birth of the American frontier.

Premiering on January 9, 2024, American Primeval is set to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, depicting a harsh, untamed world where survival is the only thing that matters. With an all-star cast and a story steeped in violence, religion, and cultural clashes, this series is sure to be a must-watch.

What is "American Primeval" About?

In 1857, America’s wilderness is a chaotic, brutal frontier. Peace is scarce, and those who dare to venture into these lands are often consumed by hatred, fear, and violence. “American Primeval” explores the collapse of innocence, as settlers, indigenous tribes, and religious groups battle for survival, territory, and control over their fates.

The series is a fictionalized retelling of the lawless nature of this era, focusing on the violent collision of various cultures and communities. As the story unfolds, viewers will witness characters driven to extreme lengths to survive, offering a gripping narrative that delves deep into the human psyche during one of America’s most turbulent periods.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Netflix for trusting us with this project,” said Pete Berg, director and executive producer of the series. “I'm excited to show viewers a survival tale like no other—intense, raw, and packed with heart-pounding moments. We're diving right into the heart of this brutal world.”

The Creative Team Behind "American Primeval"

“American Primeval” is a result of collaboration between Pete Berg, Mark L. Smith, and Eric Newman. It marks Berg’s first project under his first-look deal with Netflix, adding an exciting new chapter to his already impressive career. Smith is known for his work on The Revenant, which won multiple Academy Awards, while Newman, who previously worked on hits like Narcos and Griselda, serves as showrunner and executive producer.

This creative trio, along with a talented team behind the scenes, is bringing to life a tale that explores survival in its most brutal form, showing the raw, unrelenting spirit of those who sought to conquer or be consumed by the wild.

Stunning Cast Brings the Frontier to Life

At the heart of American Primeval is a star-studded cast that includes some of the best talent in Hollywood.

Taylor Kitsch as Isaac

Taylor Kitsch, known for his roles in Painkiller, The Terminal List, and Waco, stars as Isaac, a man haunted by his past. Struggling to overcome his personal demons, Isaac is a key character who must navigate the harsh realities of the frontier while dealing with his own internal battles.

Betty Gilpin as Sara Rowell

In a standout role, Betty Gilpin (Gaslit, GLOW) portrays Sara Rowell, a composed woman seeking to navigate the dangerous frontier alongside her son. Gilpin’s character is calm under pressure, and her journey to survive in a chaotic world will be a central focus of the series.

Kim Coates as Brigham Young

Veteran actor Kim Coates (Sons of Anarchy, Bad Blood) plays Brigham Young, the real-life leader of the Mormon Church. His character will stop at nothing to protect his followers, even if it means using violent tactics and the Mormon army to do so. Young’s influence on the landscape of the American West is immense, and his character adds a layer of historical tension to the series.

Jai Courtney as Virgil Cutter

Jai Courtney, known for his roles in The Suicide Squad and Kaleidoscope, portrays Virgil Cutter, a ruthless trapper and bounty hunter who takes advantage of the naïve and vulnerable. His morally questionable actions will add a darker edge to the story, highlighting the lawlessness of the frontier.

Dane DeHaan as Jacob Pratt

Dane DeHaan, who starred in Oppenheimer and The Staircase, plays Jacob Pratt, a Mormon trying to lead his family across the dangerous wilderness to Utah. As a man of faith, Jacob’s journey is one of survival, faith, and the harsh reality of frontier life.

Supporting Cast: A Rich Ensemble

The series boasts a rich ensemble cast, each character adding depth to the narrative. Other key cast members include Preston Mota as Devin Rowell, Shea Whigham as Jim Bridger, and Kyle Bradley Davis as Tilly, among many others. Each actor brings their own unique energy to the wild and violent world of "American Primeval."

Watch the "American Primeval" Trailer

Before the series drops, fans can get a sneak peek at the intense action and high stakes through the official trailer. Watch as Kitsch, Gilpin, and others take on the dangerous frontier, facing treacherous landscapes, ruthless enemies, and the constant fight for survival. The trailer offers a glimpse of the gritty and raw atmosphere of the show, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable journey.

When Does "American Primeval" Premiere?

The thrilling journey of "American Primeval" begins on January 9, 2024, and it’s sure to immerse viewers in a world where survival is a battle and violence is inevitable. As the story unfolds, expect a journey filled with raw emotion, intense action, and heart-pounding moments.

Start preparing for the frontier’s most unforgiving season, and tune in to see how these characters face their greatest test yet.