Netflix Unveils Trailer for Dark Western ‘American Primeval’

There’s little doubt that the Western genre has been seeing a resurgence as of late thanks to shows like Yellowstone and 1883, and now Netflix is getting in on the action with the six-part thriller American Primeval. Starring Taylor Kitsch, the series reunites the Friday Night Lights alumni with Peter Berg, who directed the 2004 movie, and would go on to develop the 2006 hit series in which Kitsch portrayed fullback Tim Riggins.

The stunning new trailer for American Primeval (seen below) just dropped, giving us our first look at what we can expect from the explosive series, which also features Saura Lightfoot Leon, Betty Gilpin, Jai Courtney, and the always-fantastic Shea Whigham. “What do you think’s out there?” asks the voice of Preston Mota, who portrays Devin Rowell. “Your father,” says his mother, Sara (Gilpin). From there, we’re treated to a barrage of beautiful scenery before things take a dark turn and highlight all the old West action you can handle.

Set in 1857, American Primeval examines the fight to gain control of the American West through the violent collision of culture, religion, and community. Based on the trailer alone, we’re already excited about this one, but if that wasn’t enough to whet your whistle, check out the full description of the series below.

“This is America…1857. Up is down, pain is everywhere, innocence and tranquility are losing the battle to hatred and fear. Peace is the shrinking minority, and very few possess grace — even fewer know compassion. There is no safe haven in these brutal lands, and only one goal matters: survival.”

Peter Berg and Taylor Kitsch Have the Potential to Create Old West Magic

In addition to being busy with his new Western series – a first for the creator – Berg is also looking to revisit the world of Friday Night Lights for a quasi reboot that may or may not return him to the town of Dillon, Texas. Details are scarce right now on the project, but word has it that it won’t be a straight remake, but rather a new tale set in the same universe that will feature an all-new story and characters.

There’s no telling if any of the original cast members, including Kitsch, might show up, but regardless, Kitsch has been keeping busy in the years since appearing in the beloved series. He had a lead role in HBO’s True Detective, played cult-leader David Koresh in Waco, and popped up in Netflix’s 2023 drama, Painkiller. His most prominent role as of late has been that of Ben Edwards in the Prime Video series Terminal List, which has been renewed for a second season and is currently in pre-production.

While he may not have A-list status compared to some other high-profile names, don’t sleep on Kitsch, or American Primeval when it premieres on Jan. 9. He’s proven himself to be a compelling actor when given the chance to shine, and with Berg by his side, we have no doubt that the Netflix Western series will offer something fresh in a genre that’s quickly becoming saturated in the television space.

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American Primeval

Release Date

January 9, 2025

Cast

Taylor Kitsch , Jai Courtney , Dane DeHaan , Betty Gilpin , Nick Hargrove , Kyle Bradley Davis , Derek Hinkey , Saura Lightfoot Leon , Preston Mota , Shawnee Pourier , Joe Tippett

Seasons

1