Note: This article contains minor spoilers for Lawmen: Bass Reeves.
As a fan of television, I’m thrilled that Taylor Sheridan’s popular series Landman has been renewed for a second season. However, I find myself eagerly awaiting news from Paramount+ regarding a second season of the exceptional series Lawmen: Bass Reeves. Produced by Taylor Sheridan and created by Chad Feehan, this acclaimed show portrays the remarkable real-life journey of the legendary lawman, one of America’s first Black deputy U.S. marshals.
The finale of the series leaves viewers with Reeves, portrayed by David Oyelowo, contemplating retirement. Yet, in reality, the historic figure continued his service for another three decades, apprehending over 3,000 fugitives during that extensive period. With such rich material available, showrunner Chad Feehan has ample opportunity to further develop the narrative around this iconic figure of the American West.
The Case for a Second Season of Lawmen: Bass Reeves
Reeves’ Story Isn’t Over
In the series’ conclusion, we see Reeves reflecting on his life, opting for family time over profession. However, to conclude his story at this point would be a disservice both to Reeves himself and to the influential legacy he created. This opens the door for a continuation that acknowledges his enduring contributions.
A second season would not only showcase a more seasoned Reeves, as his story in the first season only covers the early stages of his extensive career but also offers a chance to explore unresolved storylines. Fans are eager to learn more about beloved characters like Billy Crow (Forrest Goodluck), a criminal turned confidant, and Jackson “Jackrabbit”Cole (Tosin Morohunfola), an anti-hero figure.
David Oyelowo Ready for More
Oyelowo’s Enthusiasm Could Propel the Series Forward
During a recent SXSW event promoting his upcoming Apple TV+ series Government Cheese, David Oyelowo, who stars as Bass Reeves, shared his thoughts with ScreenRant’s Rachel Foersch about the potential for a second season. He expressed a positive outlook, urging fans to rally for more episodes of Lawmen: Bass Reeves:
The more people ask for more Lawmen: Bass Reeves, the sooner it’ll happen, I think. I loved, loved, loved playing that role. To saddle up again is something I’m open to, so you never know.
As both the star and a producer on the series, Oyelowo’s enthusiasm is more than just hopeful musings. However, it appears that the momentum for a second season is essential—fans must keep the demand alive to encourage Paramount+ to greenlight a follow-up season.
Potential Directions for Lawmen: Bass Reeves
More to Explore Beyond Season One
The wealth of material from the latter part of Bass Reeves’ life provides an excellent foundation for future storytelling. A second season could delve into the tragic passing of his wife Jennie due to peritonitis in 1896 and his subsequent marriage to Winnie Sumter in 1900. Alternatively, there is the significant event of Reeves arresting his son “Bennie”for murder in 1902, a storyline ripe for adaptation.
Additionally, the creators, including Chad Feehan, have hinted at the possibility of transforming the series into an anthology format to spotlight other overlooked lawmen of the era. This concept could allow for the character of Bass Reeves to return, presenting him as a seasoned deputy whose path intersects with another unsung hero of the Old West in Lawmen: Bass Reeves.