In the coming weeks, Netflix is set to release a brand-new Western TV series, and though it looks like a good addition to the platform, it won’t scratch the itch left byAmerican Primevalat the start of the year. Released in January 2025,American Primevalisa historical Western seriesset in Utah in 1857. It followsa mother and son as they attempt to flee their home in the midst of a war between the Mormon church and Utah’s more lawless settlers. The series received strong reviews upon its release, including a 71% on Rotten Tomatoes.
American Primevalhas stood out to audiences because it feels unlike anything Netflix has ever madebefore. Harking back to old Western traditions, the show is violent, gorey, and unflinching about what it was like to live in the Wild West. Showrunner Mark L. Smith creates a vivid landscape, from the bleak atmosphere to the arresting performances byAmerican Primeval’scast. Finally, it seems as though Netflix would be able to compete with Paramount+Yellowstoneempire. After just six episodes, audiences were left wanting more - and unfortunately, more has yet to come.
Ransom Canyon Looks Like Another Good Netflix Western Show
Ransom Canyon Will Be Better For Yellowstone Fans
AfterAmerican Primeval,Netflix is releasing another Western TV series, though it feels quite different. Set to air on Aug 06, 2025,Ransom Canyonis a Western romance show based on a series of novels by Jody Thomas. As the title hints,the series is set in Ranson Canyon, an idyllic Texas town where three ranching families compete for land. In the middle of it all, a heartbroken rancher seeks love and revenge and a mysterious newcomer arrives, dredging up old secrets and new conflicts.Ransom Canyon’scast includes Josh Duhamel, James Brolin, Minka Kelly, and Lizzy Greene.
Despite the fact thatRansom Canyonis technically a Western,it seems better suited for fans ofYellowstonethanAmerican Primeval.First and foremost, this is becauseRansom Canyonis set in the present day and has significant themes of romance.These ideas certainly come into play in series likeYellowstone,but are of less importance in the brutal world ofAmerican Primeval.Furthermore,Ransom Canyon’smelodrama and small town feel could be compelling for those who likeBridgerton, Virgin River,or similar drama series.
I’m Still Waiting For More American Primeval - Or Something Like That
Why Netflix Should Continue With American Primeval
Ransom Canyonis sure to find plenty of fans upon its release, but those looking for something likeAmerican Primevalwill continue to be at a loss. Movies aside, there is reallynothing on Netflix that resemblesAmerican Primevalthat closely. There are some Western series, but they lack a dark edge. There are violent series, but Western is not their chosen genre. In this way, Netflix threw viewers a bone withAmerican Primeval,but now, audiences are craving more and have nowhere to turn, at least not on Netflix.
American Primeval Spinoff Idea Supported By The Showrunner Is Better Than Season 2 Happening
Continuing the world of American Primeval would make sense given the show’s success, but a spinoff could prove a much better idea than season 2.
Really, the easy solution would be for Netflix to renewAmerican Primevalfor a second season. The series has formed a strong enough fanbase that a second season would definitely be merited, and another installment would give Netflix a chance to get even more fans on board. Additionally,American Primevalhinted at an opportunity for Netflix to rivalYellowstone’sempire on Westerns.If the streaming platform followed through with this chance, then Netflix could create a Western universe as vast and star-studded as Paramount+’s.
Will Netflix Make More American Primeval?
What To Watch After American Primeval
At this point, Netflix has not renewedAmerican Primevalseason 2. The show only premiered a few months ago, so there is still time for an announcement to come, but as of now,the answer seems to be that Netflix will not continue withAmerican Primeval.In some ways, this makes sense consideringhowAmerican Primevalended, with a majority of the main characters facing tragic ends. Therefore,American Primevalmay have been meant to be a limited series in the first place.
As audiences wait for confirmation about whetherAmerican Primevalwill continue or be canceled, there are a few movies that may provide the same thrills as the TV series.After watchingAmerican Primeval,viewers should check out movies likeBone Tomahawk,Wind River,andThe Revenant,along with shows such as1883, Godless,andUnder the Banner of Heaven.Hopefully, these projects can ease the wait that Netflix has forced ontoAmerican Primevallovers.
