“We Need to Acknowledge That It Happened”: ‘1923’ Cast on the Show Battling Racism

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1923, a pre-cursor to Yellowstone and an acclaimed Western series, transports viewers back a century, delving into the unforgiving realities of that period. A significant theme in the show is the depiction of racism, specifically the plight of Native Americans, which unfolds through authentic narrative threads based on historical events.

At the Los Angeles debut for “1923” Season 2, actor Dougie Hall (Two Spears) spoke about the show’s unflinching portrayal of historical truths. He noted that creator Taylor Sheridan is dedicated to crafting a genuine narrative, focusing on past wrongs instead of brushing them aside.

Hall stated that he’s open and truthful when discussing matters relevant to Indigenous peoples, as well as events that actually occurred. He illuminates many aspects of this, Hall believes, because acknowledging past occurrences is crucial for healing.

The show delves into the matter of anti-miscegenation laws as well, regulations that prohibited interracial relationships during their era. In the first season, Brian Geraghty’s character Zane was forced apart from his wife, who is Asian, due to these constraints. He highlighted how these topics remain significant and pertinent even in today’s society.

1923 shares a similarity with the year 2025, as Geraghty pointed out, because sometimes the law serves us, while at other times it seems incredibly tainted or corrupt.

As the man portraying Jacob Dutton, I’ve shared insights into the trials my character encounters while striving to preserve our family’s land. In essence, Jacob is a man ready to go the extra mile, to ensure the safety and well-being of those he cherishes most.

According to Ford, Jacob is determined to travel as far as necessary and will go to any length for his family. He seems to have no other option, Ford noted. Additionally, he contemplated on the challenging circumstances of that period, stating, “That was a time in our history when people had to rely solely on themselves.

1923’s cast includes Father Renaud, portrayed by Sebastian Roché, who is a stern priest at a boarding school. He employs his authority to justify his questionable actions. In Season 2, we see him chasing Teonna, an Indigenous girl who fled the institution. As he journeys with Marshal Kent, a character known for his aggression, the show underscores the prevalent brutality of that time period.

Aminah Nieves, who plays Teonna, spoke about how deeply this role has affected her. “It’s had a far greater impact on me mentally and spiritually than anything else,” she explained. “Now, I find myself with an opportunity that I didn’t have before, which I will always be thankful for.

As a new addition to this captivating series, I found myself instantly bonding with the talented team, just like Jennifer Carpenter. She, portraying Mamie Fossett, has nothing but praises for the collaborative atmosphere and Sheridan’s knack for crafting compelling female characters.

It seemed as if it occurred in no time at all,” Carpenter stated. “The group I encountered was incredibly warm and dedicated, hands down the best I’ve ever mixed with. Taylor Sheridan excels at creating strong female characters. The environment here is exceptionally fertile – not just on paper, but also on set and in the dedication of the crew.

1923 Season 2 premieres on February 23 on Paramount+, with new episodes dropping weekly.

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2025-02-24 13:44