FX's critically acclaimed neo-Western mystery series The Lowdown is gearing up for its second season, and the cast just got even more impressive. According to a new report, Emmy nominees Martha Plimpton and Clifton Collins Jr. have joined the ensemble, which already includes Ethan Hawke, Tommy Lee Jones, Betty Gilpin, and Austin Amelio.
Set in Tulsa, Oklahoma, The Lowdown follows Lee Raybon (Hawke), a citizen journalist, rare book dealer, and self-styled "truthistorian" whose relentless pursuit of the truth lands him in hot water—especially when he starts investigating the powerful Washberg family. The series premiered last year to rave reviews, earning a stellar 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes and quickly securing a renewal.
Who Are the New Additions?
Martha Plimpton, best known for her role in The Goonies, has become a television powerhouse with three Emmy nominations for Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Raising Hope, and The Good Wife—winning for the latter. She recently starred in the HBO series Task alongside Mark Ruffalo and had a strong 2025 with Prime Target.
Clifton Collins Jr. returns to FX after his Emmy-nominated turn in the miniseries Thief. He's also known for his work in Westworld and films like Star Trek, Traffic, Nightmare Alley, and Train Dreams. His addition brings a familiar face to FX audiences and adds depth to the already stacked cast.
A Growing Universe
While Taylor Sheridan's Tulsa King continues to dominate the neo-Western space on Paramount+, FX's The Lowdown offers a more cerebral take on the genre. Both shows are set in Tulsa but couldn't be more different in tone. The Lowdown leans into conspiracy, wit, and character-driven storytelling, while Tulsa King is a gritty crime saga starring Sylvester Stallone.
Season 2 of The Lowdown is shaping up to be a must-watch, especially with the addition of Plimpton and Collins. The series already boasts a remarkable cast, including Tommy Lee Jones in his first television role in over 40 years. With Hawke leading the charge and a team of Emmy-caliber actors backing him up, the show is poised to build on its near-perfect first season.
What to Expect
Details about Season 2's plot remain under wraps, but fans can expect more of the sharp writing, twisty mysteries, and dark humor that made the first season a hit. The show's unique blend of neo-Western aesthetics and modern-day detective work has drawn comparisons to True Detective and Fargo, but The Lowdown has carved out its own identity.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, The Lowdown stands out as a smart, engaging series that rewards attentive viewers. With its growing cast and critical acclaim, it's quickly becoming one of FX's most exciting offerings.
