While I’ve always admired his work, the most recent episode ofDark Windsproved something I’ve thought for years: it’s well past time to give Zahn McClarnon awards love.Dark Windsseason 3has been the tensest so far, with everything in Joe Leaphorn’s life seeming to crumble around him. The frustrating case he’s working, his emotional and mental state, even his marriage to Emma are coming unraveled, and the root cause all ties back to Joe himself. Until he deals with his past and how it impacts his present, Joe will remain haunted, whether byDark Winds' Ye’iitsohor by his own guilt.
As such, the most recent episode of the series took an unusual approach to really drive home the point that Joe is at the center of everything this season and the key to it all.Dark Windsseason 3, episode 6detoured from the usual dark procedural format of the crime thriller series, instead unfolding as an extended dream sequence for Joe, spurred by him being hit with a hallucinogenic dart. In our plot-obsessed modern era, it was a refreshing change of pace, a plot-light but story-heavy outing that allowed Zahn McClarnon to shine.
Dark Winds Season 3 Continues To Prove Why Zahn McClarnon Deserves Award Attention
He’s Been So Good For So Long But This Season Really Stands Out In His Career
Zahn McClarnon has been excellent for decades, but it really feels like he didn’t start getting his proper dues until the past decade with a string of critically-acclaimed hits likeDark Winds,Reservation Dogs,Fargo,Longmire, andWestworld. Even beyond those brighter pop culture satellites, McClarnon’s work has been impeccable. Truly, he’s one of the rare actors who makes every single thing he’s in better, even if it’s just a small guest appearance, such as his brief role as William Lopez in the MCU’sHawkeyeandEchoseries.
But it’sDark Windsthat has really shown what Zahn McClarnon is capable of as an actor. The series is the definition of “show, don’t tell,” and McClarnon excels in that mode. As a man of few words, but a deep well of emotion, Joe Leaphorn is thoughtful, reserved, and determined, but there’s a lot going on under his surface, which McClarnon conveys through the subtlest facial expressions and change in body language. It’s a quietly masterful performance, and he’s compelling every time he’s on the screen. While he’s mostly split time with other strong supporting cast members,Dark Windsis Zahn McClarnon’s show through and through.
Zahn McClarnon’s Role As Joe Leaphorn Is A Highlight Of Dark Winds, But Season 3 Episode 6 Is Extra Special
McClarnon Carried It Entirely On His Shoulders
Even with the accolades he’s rightfully gotten through the first three seasons,Dark Windsseason 3, episode 6saw McClarnon hit a new gear with his acting. Unlike every other episode prior, where, while Joe is the main protagonist, there are plenty of other supporting characters, the sixth episode of the third season was his alone, with McClarnon appearing in every single scene in the episode, often by himself.Dark Windsproved McClarnon has what it takes to be a leading man. The most recent episode proved he has what it takes to carry an entire series on his own.
“Ye’iitsoh (Big Monster)”
“Náá’tsoh (Big Eyes)”
“Ch’į́į́dii (Ghosts)”
“T’áá Áłts’íísígo (Just a Small Piece)”
“Béésh Łį́į́ (Iron Horse)”
April 27
If there is any fairness in how the voting bodies evaluate performances, then both the Emmy voters and the Golden Globe voters better be paying attention to Zahn McClarnon’s work in this season ofDark Winds. By any metric, season 3, episode 6 alone would be enough to see him be nominated for an award, if not take it home. The emotional range McClarnon expresses throughout the episode is a tour de force, the kind of powerful, one-man-show performance rarely seen on TV these days. McClarnon has always been great. It’s long past time that awards voting bodies acknowledge it.
