As the acclaimed drama Landman, featuring Billy Bob Thornton, concludes its second season, enthusiasts of the Western genre are eagerly anticipating the confirmed third season, expected later this year. To bridge the gap until its return, here are five masterful Western series that deserve a spot on your watchlist, each offering unique narratives and stellar performances.
Yellowstone: A Modern Western Epic
First on the list is Taylor Sheridan's iconic series, Yellowstone, available for streaming on Paramount+ and Netflix in the UK. Starring Kevin Costner, the first four seasons are accessible on Netflix, with the saga expanding this year through confirmed spinoffs like Marshals and The Dutton Ranch on Paramount+. An IMDb review lauds the earlier seasons as "a modern Western masterpiece, a gripping tale that transcends the genre's conventions." This series is a must-watch for its intense family drama and breathtaking landscapes.
Dark Winds: A Darker, Cultural Thriller
Next is Dark Winds, streaming on AMC+ in the US and Netflix in the UK. This lesser-known thriller is set in the 1970s and follows three Navajo Tribal Police officers as they unravel chilling conspiracies. Based on Tony Hillerman's novels, it blends period nostalgia, Navajo culture, and subtle supernatural horror. Fans praise it for its suspenseful plot and exceptional acting, making it a standout choice for those seeking a deeper, more atmospheric Western experience.
Deadwood: Raw and Gritty Historical Drama
The third recommendation is the HBO drama Deadwood, available on Paramount+. Known for its raw and gritty portrayal of the Old West, this series spans three seasons of intense cowboy drama. Featuring a stellar cast including Timothy Olyphant and Ian McShane, one enthusiastic fan described it as "maybe the most beautifully written drama since Shakespeare." Its complex characters and historical depth make it a timeless classic in the Western genre.
Lawman: Bass Reeves: A Riveting Historical Tale
Maintaining the historical theme is Lawman: Bass Reeves on Paramount+. This compelling drama stars David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves, one of the first African American Deputy U.S. Marshals west of the Mississippi River after the American Civil War. The series, which includes one of Donald Sutherland's final performances, has been praised as "Another great show from Taylor Sheridan!" for its top-notch cast and authentic sense of grit, offering a powerful look at justice and resilience.
Ransom Canyon: Romantic Drama with Western Flair
For fans who prefer the family drama elements of Landman over violence, there is the recent Netflix drama Ransom Canyon. Starring Josh Duhamel and Minka Kelly, this romantic-drama centres on a land dispute similar to Yellowstone but focuses on a developing relationship between a grieving rancher and a longtime family friend. The cosy narrative explores a community threatened by a mysterious drifter. A 10/10 IMDb review promises: "If you're a fan of emotionally rich dramas like Yellowstone and Virgin River, this show is about to become your next obsession."
These five series provide a diverse range of Western storytelling, from epic family sagas to intimate romantic dramas, ensuring Landman fans have plenty to enjoy while waiting for the next season. Each offers a unique perspective on the genre, backed by critical acclaim and fan adoration.
