‘The Lowdown’ Creator Sterlin Harjo on the Bittersweet Finale, What America Could Learn from Tulsa and How Ethan Hawke Can ‘Break Your Heart While Making You Laugh’

‘The Lowdown’ Creator Sterlin Harjo on the Bittersweet Finale

SPOILER ALERT: The following article discusses plot details from “The Sensitive Kind,” the Season 1 finale of “The Lowdown,” now streaming on Hulu.

Lee Raybon: The “Truthstorian” of Tulsa

Journalist and bookstore owner Lee Raybon (Ethan Hawke), the determined hero of “The Lowdown,” calls himself a “truthstorian.” This self-made title reflects Lee’s dedication to uncovering Tulsa, Oklahoma’s hidden histories as a vital mission.

Exposing Corruption in Tulsa

In the Nov. 4 finale of the FX series’ eight-episode first season, Lee uncovers alarming secrets. He finds evidence that a white supremacist church used a land deal to bribe Donald Washburg (Kyle Maclachlan), a gubernatorial candidate.

Donald’s late brother Dale (Tim Blake Nelson), a closeted eccentric who died in a suspicious “suicide,” intended to leave the land to his Native friend Arthur (Graham Greene, in one of his final roles before passing).
Donald’s associate Frank (Tracy Letts), without Donald’s knowledge, hired enforcers who intimidated Dale leading to his death and eventually killed Arthur himself.

Choosing Action over Publication

Although the discoveries were explosive, Lee chooses not to publish these revelations. Instead, he uses the information to pressure a guilt-ridden Donald into transferring the land to the Osage Nation, aiming for meaningful change.

Lee Raybon describes himself as a “truthstorian,” highlighting his commitment to revealing hidden truths in Tulsa.

Author’s summary: Sterlin Harjo’s “The Lowdown” finale balances painful truths and hopeful action, showing how uncovering history can lead to justice and healing.

Variety — 2025-11-05