George R.R. Martin has recently confirmed that production has commenced for Dark Winds Season 4. As the author of the iconic Game of Thrones series, he also serves as an executive producer on this gripping thriller. The show centers around Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn, portrayed by Zahn McClarnon, who serves within the Tribal Police. Just ahead of the third season premiere scheduled for March 9, AMC announced the renewal for a fourth season.
In Martin’s “Not A Blog”section on his website, he divulged that production for Dark Winds Season 4 is taking place just north of Santa Fe. He noted that this upcoming season will consist of “eight episodes,”with McClarnon also stepping in to make his directorial debut for the first episode. Martin highlighted the breathtaking landscapes of New Mexico as a standout feature in the new season. Below, you can find Martin’s insights into what’s in store:
The third season of DARK WINDS, adapted from Tony Hillerman’s renowned Navajo detective stories, premiered on AMC and AMC+ on March 9, garnering impressive ratings and critical acclaim. Comments from critics suggest it’s high time Zahn McClarnon received an Emmy nod. I wholeheartedly concur with that sentiment. This season comprises eight episodes, an increase from the six episodes in the first two seasons. I’m thrilled to confirm that Season 4 will also feature eight episodes, and we’ve already begun shooting. Zahn himself is directing the first episode! We have a lot to anticipate: Kiowa, Bernadette, Chris Eyre, Stephen Paul Judd, along with New Mexico’s stunning scenery — all of this makes it a must-watch if you haven’t tuned in yet. As for those chess-playing inmates appearing in episode one… yes, one could be likened to the Sundance Kid, while the other is reminiscent of some Twilight Zone character?
DARK WINDS is currently filming at Camel Rock Studios, which is located just north of Santa Fe. Meanwhile, over in London, the production for the upcoming season of HOUSE OF THE DRAGON has also commenced, with eight episodes expected for that series as well, likely airing in 2026.
Implications of George R.R. Martin’s Comments on Dark Winds Season 4
George R.R. Martin’s Enthusiasm for Season Four
According to AMC’s previous announcements, filming for Dark Winds Season 4 was projected to begin in March, with the series expected to air sometime in 2026. The fourth season will comprise eight hour-long episodes, with the confirmed cast including McClarnon, Kiowa Gordon, Jessica Matten, and Deanna Allison. Additionally, new talents such as Chaske Spencer and Franka Potente are set to join the cast.
Martin’s update indicates that production is actively underway, featuring the return of Bernadette, played by Matten, who had earlier transitioned to a role at the U.S. Border Patrol by the end of Season 2. Although Season 3 continues its airing, anticipation is building for Season 4, which is expected to showcase the tribal police as they delve into a fresh investigation, remaining consistent with the show’s narrative style.
Analysis of Dark Winds Season 4’s Production Status
Dark Winds Returns to an Annual Release Schedule
The commencement of production for Dark Winds Season 4 appears to be proceeding as scheduled, paving the way for a return of the critically acclaimed series approximately one year after the conclusion of Season 3. Set in the 1970s, Dark Winds first debuted in June 2022, followed by its second season in July 2023. While delays were experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent Hollywood strikes, the series is now poised to follow a consistent annual release cycle with the upcoming fourth season.
With the first episodes of Season 3 receiving accolades from both critics and viewers and achieving a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes across all three seasons, the prospects look promising for the show’s future. AMC has previously indicated intentions to develop Dark Winds as a long-term series alongside Anne Rice’s Immortal Universe, suggesting a strong possibility of maintaining a regular release schedule moving forward.
Source: George R.R. Martin