When Lawmen Bass Reeves was released in 2023, it took both viewers and critics by storm. It became the most-watched premiere on Paramount+ and even earned an Emmy Award nomination for itself. The series is based on the true-life events of Bass Reeves, one of the first Black deputy marshals for the US towards the west of Mississippi. The series puts shine on Reeves who has been a celebrated figure and definitely “deserves (his) day in the sun”, as creator Chad Feehan very eloquently comments. If you are yet to fall on the bandwagon of Lawmen Bass Reeves, stay tuned to our careful review, so we don’t spoil it for you, and important facts you must know about Season 1 and the upcoming Season 2 if you have been a fan already.
Who is Lawmen Bass Reeves? What did He Do?
Bass Reeves was an esteemed Black lawman, being one of the primary deputy U.S. marshals west of the Mississippi River. Born in what we now know as Arkansas in 1838, Bass boasted a distinguished law enforcement career spanning the latter part of the 19th century. He was ace at hunting down criminals in the Indian Territory, now Oklahoma, and often given credit for a number of arrests.
On top of having profound tracking skills, nothing could shake Bass Reeves’ courage. Born a slave he eventually escaped amidst the chaos of the Civil War, finding refuge and honing skills with Native American tribes. These skills would later prove invaluable in his lawman career. Bass ascended to the role of U.S. Marshal in 1875 and, over his tenure, it’s believed he reeled in over 3,000 crooks. Countless stories, movies, and television series pay tribute to Bass Reeves, immortalizing his impactful contribution to American history as a beacon of justice and the embodiment of law enforcement in the Wild West.
Lawmen Bass Reeves Character List- Season 1
1. Bass Reeves played by David Oyelowo
Oyelowo plays the titular Bass Reeves, one of the first Black deputy US Marshals, who was born into slavery, but managed to make his way out of it. Reeves was said to have arrested more than 3000 miscreants over his tenure West of the Mississippi River.
2. Jennie Reeves played by Lauren E. Banks
Banks plays the role of Bass Reeve’s fiercely loyal wife Jennie Reeves, who faces the foremost of Mr. Reeve’s profession’s aftermath and ramifications. Jennie herself was a slave along with Bass and has been with him since the war.
3. Sherrill Lynn played by Dennis Quaid
Sherrill Lynn was another deputy US marshal in the series who was played by Dennis Quaid. He is a very loyal man and has an immense commitment to justice.
4. Billy Crow played by Forrest Goodluck
Billy Crow is a young Cherokee man with eccentric taste. He has a great love for dime store books and has rather a gaudy style. He is played by Forrest Goodluck.
4. George Reeves played by Shea Whigham
George Reeves was the son of the Reeve’s owner and had Bass at his behest when they went to the Civil War to fight for the Confederacy. Spoiler- It was after George’s murder that Bass and Jennie decided to leave the place and begin a new life.
5. Esau Pierce played by Barry Pepper
Pierce was the leader of the 1st Cherokee Mounted Rifles Confederate army regiment during the Civil World War. Esau had joined the 11th Texan Cavalry and had defeated the Union Army. Pierce is not the most pleasant man to be around and can be borderline abusive to those around him. What challenges he brings to Lawmen Bass Reeve’s life, you must watch the show.
Why You Should Watch Lawmen Bass Reeves?
1. It has David Oyelowo
What got me hooked on the show was the addition of dynamic British Actor David Oyelowo. Oyelowo is a trained Stage Actor and has been absolutely magnificent in his screen presence. His portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in Paramount’s Selma was mind-blowing and absolutely beckoning.
2. Took Eight Years to Make
The series, as Oyelowo claimed, took a total of 8 years to make, which makes it quite a catch. The time frame calls for it to be an amazing show with great details.
3. “Wicked Days are Done…”
The first line that I heard about the series itself sounds so catchy, and I love some good justice drama. Reeves becomes a free hero and gets rid of miscreants to make the society a better place. Absolutely thrilling!
4. Emmy Award Nomination
Lawmen Bass Reeves also received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Music Composition for a Limited or Anthology Series, Movie, or Special. The nomination was awarded to Chanda Dancy. The series was also nominated for Outstanding Original Title Sequence for a Television Production. The show has also received nominations from the Nominee Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes, Image Awards, etc.
When Will Lawmen Bass Reeves Season 2 Release?
Not much has been revealed about the Lawmen Bass Reeves Season 2, but talks are on about the development. Sheridan has claimed that the series would now move on to other “Lawmen” as the story of Bass Reeves has concluded. This means that Lawmen will continue to be an Anthology series.
Director Marcano also added that “Reeves could be back”, but how that happens is still up for speculation.
Where To Watch Lawmen Bass Reeves Online?
You can easily watch Lawmen Bass Reeves online with a Paramount+ Subscription. The platform also has many other award-winning and popular shows like Criminal Minds, Where Women Kill, etc that you must add to your watchlist!
Conclusion
Lawmen Bass Reeves has won hearts, showcasing America’s famous lawman and his journey towards freedom and justice. No surprise there- fans can’t wait for Season 2. The eight-year journey and Emmy nods are also proof of its impact and people are in love with the rich history, intense justice, and the star cast. And there’s more coming up! Ready for more historic action with Lawmen? Don’t miss it. Get Paramount+ now and stream the best TV shows and movies online!
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