Over the weekend on Sunday, Lawmen: Bass Reeves premiered on Paramount +. Featuring Emmy Award nominee and executive producer David Oyelowo, LAWMEN: BASS REEVES chronicles the life of famed Old West lawman Bass Reeves. This eight-episode original series chronicles Reeves’ path from slavery to law enforcement as a pioneering Black U.S. Deputy Marshal west of the Mississippi. Even though he arrested over 3,000 outlaws, the badge was heavy, and he struggled with its moral and spiritual cost to his cherished family. Lawmen: Bass Reese is a new anthology series that will explore the legacy of other notable lawmen and criminals. 

Margot Bingham as Sara Jumper, David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves and Riley Looc as Curtis Jumper in Lawmen: Bass Reeves, episode 1, season 1, streaming on Paramount+, 2023. Photo Credit: Emerson Miller/Paramount+

The series presents a raw and gritty portrayal of the wild west, shedding light on the harsh realities of its brutal, corrupt, and lawless nature during that pivotal period in American history.   Our goal was to ensure the utmost authenticity and truthfulness.   Not only does Basse’s life captivate, but also the extraneous elements he encounters.   The battle of Pea Ridge is a prime illustration.   “Not romanticizing war, but rather highlighting the harsh reality of its brutality,” stated Chad Feeand.   Chad was a writer on the series.   According to him, the objective of him and his fellow writers was to discover the most captivating approach to narrate this story.  

Donald Sutherland as Judge Parker in Lawmen: Bass Reeves, episode 3, season 1, streaming on Paramount+, 2023. Photo Credit: Lauren Smith/Paramount+

He and his fellow writers collaborated with historians and researchers to create a captivating story.   It is important to consider not only the historical facts, but also various perspectives to ensure a comprehensive understanding of his life and the time period.  

Chad was captivated by the story of Bass Reeves because he saw it as a remarkable testament to the power of the human spirit.  

According to Director Damian Marcano, the story of Bass Reeves revolves around a man who faces numerous challenges while striving to hold onto his beliefs.   He expressed his intention to showcase the origin story of this historical figure through his work on the project.   The first episode is richly layered, exploring various dimensions such as social dynamics, cultural influences, historical context, and racial themes.   Nothing was left to the imagination regarding Bass’s experiences during that time.   It establishes the tone and sets the standards for the entire series.  

Lawmen: Bass Reeves, episode 2, season 1, streaming on Paramount+, 2023. Photo Credit: Lauren Smith/Paramount+

Further to Marcano, it is ultimately his responsibility to ensure that it remains entertaining.   Entering this project, he had a strong determination to ensure the audience remained engaged.   In the past, when he watched western movies, new and old, he would occasionally find himself feeling bored.   He was determined to offer a unique experience that would captivate and engage the audience.   Entering this endeavor was not only about recounting the tale of a legendary figure, but also about capturing the essence of this remarkable individual as a human being.