On the AMC drama “Dark Winds,” Zahn McClarnon stars as Lt. Joe Leaphorn of the Navajo Tribal Police, who is investigating a double murder with the help of two younger deputies, while also trying to manage the intrusive interests of the FBI, which is more interested in busting a couple of armored car robbers who may or may not be hiding somewhere on the reservation.
The series, which has been renewed for a second season, is based on the crime novels of Tony Hillerman. “I grew up with the books,” said McClarnon. “Within our Native community they were well known, obviously. And I’d auditioned for previous adaptations in the early '90s. I was familiar with those characters and they’ve always been around me in my community. So when they came to me” — George R.R. Martin and Robert Redford are among the show’s producers — “I was very interested. How could I refuse with such a wonderful team of producers? It was an easy yes for me.”
McClarnon’s elevation to leading man is long overdue, having made a name for himself in supporting roles in series including “Fargo,” “Westworld” (where he made a return appearance just recently) and in a rare comedic role on “Reservation Dogs,” to name just a few.
