A dark wind sweeps across the television landscape, and audiences respond in droves. AMC’s “Dark Winds” returned for season 3 with a powerful surge, drawing 2.2 million viewers on premiere night, according to Nielsen live+3 ratings. The critically acclaimed noir drama, now in its third season, continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.
AMC+ experienced a significant boost in viewership. The season three premiere surpassed season two’s numbers by over 50 percent, and subscriber acquisition doubled compared to the previous season. The fantastic series’ consistent growth speaks to its compelling storytelling and authentic portrayal of Navajo culture.
“Dark Winds” achieved a rare feat: Each of its first three seasons scored a perfect 100 points on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised the show, and fans expressed their unwavering enthusiasm.
“We are so proud of this series, and so thankful for the response from fans and critics to the storytelling, the performances and the authenticity that comes through in every frame,” said Dan McDermott, president of entertainment and AMC Studios for AMC Networks. “We knew Dark Winds had all the ingredients to become another important franchise for AMC and AMC+, but for Season 3 to attract more than 2.2 million premiere night viewers and again receive this level of critical acclaim – including a third straight 100-point score on Rotten Tomatoes – is truly remarkable. Thanks to everyone involved, starting with the incomparable Zahn McClarnon and our showrunner John Wirth. We can’t wait for fans to see the rest of this third season and here comes Season 4!”
Zahn McClarnon stars and executive produces the series. He will also make his directorial debut in Season 4. Kiowa Gordon, Jessica Matten, and Deanna Allison join McClarnon in the cast.
“Dark Winds” follows Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn, Jim Chee, and Bernadette Manuelito of the Navajo Tribal Police as they solve mysteries on their reservation during a surge of violent crimes.
The eight-episode third season picks up six months after Season 2. Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee investigate the disappearance of two boys. However, they find only an abandoned bicycle and a blood-stained patch of ground. Bernadette Manuelito attempts to settle into her new life with the Border Patrol, 500 miles from home. It doesn’t take long for her to uncover a conspiracy involving human and drug smuggling. The conspiracy has far-reaching implications.
Season 3 features a prominent roster of guest stars, including Jenna Elfman, Bruce Greenwood, Raoul Max Trujillo, Tonantzin Carmelo, Alex Meraz, Terry Serpico, Derek Hinkey, Phil Burke, and Christopher Heyerdahl. A Martinez and Jeri Ryan reprise their guest roles. Graham Roland created “Dark Winds,” based on Tony Hillerman’s Leaphorn & Chee book series.
