‘The Lowdown’ Finale: Creator Sterlin Harjo Breaks Down Lee’s Choices and How Robert Plant Inspired a Key Scene

‘The Lowdown’ Finale: Creator Sterlin Harjo Explains Lee’s Final Choices and Robert Plant’s Role in a Key Scene

The FX series The Lowdown, filmed in Tulsa, concluded its first season on November [date]. The finale, titled “The Sensitive Kind,” closes a dark and violent arc filled with murders, racial violence, and moral reckoning. Among the most tragic events was the death of an elderly Native man, played by Graham Greene, caused indirectly by series protagonist Lee Raybon, portrayed by Ethan Hawke.

Creator Sterlin Harjo, whose storytelling draws heavily from the noir tradition, shaped the show around moral grayness and relentless pursuit of truth. Yet, unlike many noir tales that end in despair, the finale allows its protagonists a hard-earned sense of justice—though not without personal loss.

Lee’s Investigation and Moral Dilemma

Throughout the season, Lee digs into the shadowy world surrounding Oklahoma gubernatorial candidate Donald Washberg, played by Kyle MacLachlan, and the suspicious death of Donald’s brother, Dale, portrayed by Tim Blake Nelson. His research exposes deep corruption linking Washberg’s circle to the extremist group One Well.

In the climactic episode, Lee begins to prepare his final exposé revealing the true circumstances behind Dale’s death. However, during a tense meeting with Donald, he unexpectedly shifts course.

Lee chooses to strike a deal with Donald: instead of public exposure, he compels Donald to return portions of Washberg family land—earmarked for sale to One Well—to an Indigenous nation of Oklahoma.

A Noir Ending with Hope

By diverging from noir’s traditionally bleak outcomes, Harjo gives the story moral texture. Lee’s compromise saves lives and land, suggesting that small victories can still arise from systemic corruption. According to Harjo, a key scene featuring Lee’s realization was inspired by musician Robert Plant, symbolizing creative redemption amid despair.

The conclusion embodies Harjo’s belief that even amidst darkness, integrity and cultural restoration can prevail.

Author’s Summary

In Harjo’s finale for The Lowdown, Lee Raybon’s choice blends justice with mercy as he trades revenge for restitution, echoing themes of survival, identity, and quiet defiance.

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The Hollywood Reporter The Hollywood Reporter — 2025-11-05

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