A fresh blend of Western, comedy, and thriller elements is coming to television with The Lowdown, a series starring Ethan Hawke as Lee Rayborne, an inquisitive journalist in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The show premieres on September 23 on FX, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day. Audiences will follow Lee as he investigates the suspicious death of a notable local figure, uncovering hidden truths along the way.
With Ethan Hawke The Lowdown is positioned as a standout release for 2025, especially due to its unique genre mix and intense storyline. The series also showcases a talented cast including Kyle MacLachlan and Keith David, and is led by Sterlin Harjo, creator of Reservation Dogs. The show carries influences reminiscent of the Coen brothers’ films while presenting its own distinctive narrative style.
When and Where to Catch All Eight Episodes of The Lowdown
The Lowdown launches with a special two-episode debut on September 23, airing on FX at 9 p.m. Eastern and Pacific Time. After the premiere, new episodes will be released weekly on Tuesdays until the season finishes with the eighth episode on November 4. Viewers can stream each episode on Hulu the day after its FX premiere.
The first five episodes have been publicly named: the opener is titled Pilot, followed by The Devil’s Mama, Dinosaur Memories, Short on Cowboys, and This Land. The last three episodes remain untitled, suggesting the season may hold unexpected twists toward its conclusion.
Episode Schedule:
Pilot — September 23
The Devil’s Mama — September 23
Dinosaur Memories — September 30
Short on Cowboys — October 7
This Land — October 14
Episode 1.6 — October 21
Episode 1.7 — October 28
Episode 1.8 — November 4
Strong Ensemble Cast Supports Ethan Hawke in The Lowdown
This series marks one of Ethan Hawke’s rare leading television roles, portraying Lee Rayborne, a conspiracy-driven journalist navigating perilous situations in Tulsa. The character draws inspiration from real-life reporter Lee Roy Chapman, who uncovered connections between Tulsa’s founder and the Ku Klux Klan. Hawke’s portrayal anchors the intense and determined tone of the show.
Lee’s investigation centers on the death of Dale Washberg, played by Tim Blake Nelson. This pursuit conflicts directly with Dale’s brother, Donald Washberg, portrayed by Kyle MacLachlan, who is campaigning to become Lieutenant Governor and wants to keep Lee from interfering with his political ambitions. Alongside these tensions, Lee must care for his young daughter Francis, acted by Ryan Kiera Armstrong.
The supporting cast enhances the narrative complexity. Keith David takes on the role of Marty, a private investigator surveilling Lee throughout his inquiry. Tulsa native Tracy Letts embodies Frank Martin, a local construction company owner at odds with Lee’s probing questions. Michael Hitchcock appears as Ray, an antique dealer who assists Lee with valuable insights. Additionally, Peter Dinklage is part of the cast, though his character remains under wraps, hinting at a potentially pivotal role later in the season.
Why The Lowdown’s Genre Fusion Makes It a Must-Watch
The Lowdown stands out by combining Western aesthetics with comedic and neo-noir elements, creating a balance between humor and suspense that is rarely seen in current television. Viewers are drawn into Lee Rayborne’s world of conspiracies, facing moments of laughter amid rising tension as secrets emerge.
The show’s tone and style reveal clear inspiration from the Coen brothers’ acclaimed films. Its mysterious, conspiracy-driven plot echoes works like The Big Lebowski and Burn After Reading, while the Western backdrop recalls films such as No Country for Old Men, Raising Arizona, and The Ballad of Buster Scruggs. The presence of Tim Blake Nelson, a frequent collaborator with the Coens, further connects the series to this tradition. Fans of Joel and Ethan Coen’s films will find the mix of dark comedy and mystery familiar yet fresh in The Lowdown.
Sterlin Harjo’s Vision Brings Authenticity to the Series
The show benefits from the creative leadership of Sterlin Harjo, known for his work on Reservation Dogs. While the two series differ — The Lowdown centers on an investigative thriller, whereas Reservation Dogs explores the lives of Indigenous teenagers — both share Harjo’s signature blend of humor and cultural depth. Harjo’s prior acquaintance with Lee Roy Chapman provided a personal connection that deeply informed the show’s script.
At the Toronto International Film Festival, Harjo revealed that he drew heavily on Chapman’s real-life work to develop the storyline, lending the series a grounded and urgent edge. The premiere of The Lowdown on September 23 marks a notable addition to FX’s lineup and offers viewers a sharp, intense narrative that promises to captivate and provoke thought.
