Director Pete Berg and producer Eric Newman provide an in-depth look at how the series was crafted 2025.
The Netflix limited series American Primeval plunges viewers into the rugged and often brutal world of 1857, where cultural clashes between Native Americans, Mormon settlers, U.S. government forces, and pioneers shape the narrative. The show examines survival, identity, and community in a rapidly changing and violent American frontier.
Directed and executive produced by Pete Berg, with writing by Mark L. Smith and production by Eric Newman, the series features a star-studded cast, including Taylor Kitsch, Betty Gilpin, Kim Coates, Shea Whigham, Saura Lightfoot-Leon, and Shawnee Pourier. Through their performances, American Primeval brings to life the tension and resilience of its characters against the backdrop of historical events.
Berg’s journey with the show began in 2020 when he encountered a story about the Mountain Meadows Massacre. “I stumbled upon an article about this tragedy, and it captivated me,” Berg recalled. His research sparked a collaboration with Mark L. Smith, who had already delved into the frontier era while writing The Revenant.
Smith’s prior exploration of Jim Bridger, a legendary figure in American history, fit seamlessly into the project. “I had researched Bridger extensively and even drafted a pilot about him years ago,” Smith shared. This foundation allowed American Primeval to evolve into a layered narrative, centered around Fort Bridger and the people who shaped its history.
So, how much of the series is rooted in fact? Let’s explore the historical truths and creative liberties behind the show.
Which Characters in American Primeval Are Based on Real Figures?
- Jim Bridger (Shea Whigham)
Bridger, a celebrated frontiersman and trapper, played a pivotal role in the American West’s expansion. By the 1850s, he had established Fort Bridger as a key trading post, navigating complex relationships with Native tribes, Mormon settlers, and U.S. officials. - Brigham Young (Kim Coates)
As the leader of the Mormon Church, Young wielded significant power in the Utah Territory. He commanded the Nauvoo Legion, a militia formed to defend Mormon interests. Smith ensured authenticity by incorporating dialogue taken directly from Young’s historical sermons and speeches. - Wild Bill Hickman (Alex Breaux)
Hickman, a real-life lawman and Nauvoo Legion member, was known for his controversial methods and loyalty to Young. His presence in the series highlights the darker aspects of frontier justice. - Winter Bird (Irene Bedard)
Though fictional, Winter Bird draws inspiration from a Shoshone chief noted for her leadership and unique personal life. Berg found her story particularly compelling, adding depth to the show’s portrayal of Native American culture. - James Wolsey (Joe Tippett)
Wolsey’s character mirrors a historical figure involved in the Mountain Meadows Massacre, executed for his role in the tragedy.
By blending historical figures with fictional characters, American Primeval strikes a balance between fact and storytelling, creating a vivid and immersive world.
The Roots of Conflict: Mormons, Military, and Native Tribes
At its core, American Primeval explores the intersecting struggles for survival among different groups on the frontier.
- The Mormons, led by Brigham Young, feared persecution and sought autonomy in the Utah Territory. The Nauvoo Legion was their defense against perceived threats from the U.S. government.
- The U.S. Army, under President James Buchanan, aimed to assert federal authority in the region, leading to heightened tensions with the Mormons.
- Native Tribes, such as the Shoshone and Paiute, faced displacement and conflict as settlers encroached on their lands.
“Everyone is fighting for survival, and there are no clear heroes or villains,” Berg explained. This nuanced portrayal challenges traditional narratives of frontier history.
The Mountain Meadows Massacre: Fact and Fiction
The series opens with a harrowing depiction of the Mountain Meadows Massacre, where Mormon soldiers disguised as Native warriors attack a wagon train of pioneers. This pivotal event sets the stage for the show’s broader conflicts.
“The massacre was a real historical event,” Newman said. “It became an inciting incident in our narrative, reflecting the complexity and brutality of the time.”
While the massacre was driven by the Nauvoo Legion, Smith emphasized the importance of understanding their perspective. “They believed they were defending their community from an existential threat,” he said.
Filming the massacre sequence was a monumental undertaking, involving months of preparation and over 280 actors. “We choreographed a series of long takes to capture the chaos and horror through the eyes of a mother and son,” Berg shared.
Fort Bridger: A Frontier Crossroads
Fort Bridger, established in the 1840s, served as a vital waypoint for pioneers heading west. In American Primeval, it becomes a microcosm of the frontier’s tensions and transformations.
The production team constructed a historically accurate replica of the fort in New Mexico. “We wanted it to feel like a bustling village, complete with shops, a doctor, and even a bathhouse,” Smith explained.
The series also portrays the fort’s eventual sale to Brigham Young, who burned it to prevent its use by the U.S. military. “This was a pivotal moment in history, and we wanted to do it justice,” Berg said.
Crafting Authenticity: Research and Collaboration
Authenticity was a guiding principle for the creators of American Primeval. From consulting historians to working with Indigenous cultural advisors, every detail was meticulously researched.
- Historical Experts: Berg toured Fort Bridger and the Mountain Meadows Massacre site with scholars, gaining insights into the period’s complexities.
- Indigenous Consultants: Julie O’Keefe led a team of cultural experts to ensure accurate representation of Native tribes. She worked closely with costume and set designers to create period-specific clothing and camps.
- Production Design: The fort’s replica was built using traditional methods, reflecting the labor-intensive construction of the 1850s.
“Every item, from clothing to weapons, had to align with the era,” Newman said. “It’s this attention to detail that makes the world feel real.”
Abish’s Story: A Reflection of Historical Realities
Abish (Saura Lightfoot-Leon) is a composite character inspired by real accounts of women abducted by Native tribes in the Utah Territory. Her journey explores themes of resilience and identity, offering a unique perspective on frontier life.
What Makes American Primeval Relevant Today?
The creators hope the series prompts viewers to reflect on America’s complex history.
“Our past isn’t as rosy as we’d like to believe,” Newman said. “Acknowledging the brutality of history helps us understand how those patterns might repeat today.”
Berg added that the show celebrates human resilience amidst unimaginable hardship. “It’s about people finding strength and hope in the face of overwhelming odds.”
A Labor of Love: Behind the Scenes
The making of American Primeval was a collaborative effort involving hundreds of cast and crew members. From the grueling physicality of the actors’ performances to the intricate set designs, every element was crafted with care.
“We wanted to create a visceral experience that transports viewers to another time,” Berg said. “It’s a story about survival, but also about the connections that make survival possible.”
With its blend of historical accuracy and dramatic storytelling, American Primeval offers a compelling look at the American frontier’s harsh realities.
All six episodes are now streaming on Netflix.