The acclaimed crime drama The Lowdown returned for its highly anticipated second season on FX in the United States on Wednesday, October 14. Ethan Hawke reprises his starring role as the investigative journalist and self-proclaimed Tulsa “truthstorian” Lee Raybon. The eight-episode sophomore season expands its gritty storytelling across television and streaming platforms, introducing fresh criminal investigations and high-profile guest stars.
Premiere Schedule and Streaming Details
According to FX and Hulu, the second season debuted at 9 p.m. ET and 6 p.m. PT with the release of the first two episodes on launch day. Subsequent episodes air weekly on Wednesdays on FX. Viewers in the United States can also stream the entire eight-episode season on demand through Hulu and via Hulu on Disney+ for eligible bundle subscribers. International viewers outside the U.S. can stream the series on Disney+.
Plot and New Challenges for Lee Raybon
The new season picks up immediately after Lee receives the Citizen Journalist of the Year award, an honor stemming from his recent investigative work regarding the life and death of Dale Washberg. Predictably unable to handle success smoothly, Lee self-medicates and delivers an unfiltered, chaotic acceptance speech at the ceremony.
That controversial speech catches the eye of Ginger, a brash and determined public defender played by Betty Gilpin. Although initially immune to his peculiar charm, Ginger enlists Lee’s assistance on a baffling new case: one of her clients has mysteriously vanished from a maximum-security state penitentiary. The investigation plunges Lee into a dangerous web of power, corruption, and malfeasance among Tulsa’s wealthy elite, serving as a prime assignment for The Heartland Press, where Marty (Keith David) now serves as Managing Editor.
Family Dynamics and New Cast Additions
Season 2 introduces significant additions to the ensemble cast. Academy Award winner Tommy Lee Jones joins the series as Lee Raybon Senior, the protagonist’s estranged grifter father. His sudden and unexpected arrival upends Lee’s domestic routine. This is particularly awkward since Lee has spent years telling his teenage daughter, Francis (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), that her grandfather was dead.
Meanwhile, Lee continues to navigate complicated co-parenting logistics with his ex-wife Samantha (Kaniehtiio Horn) and her new husband, Johnny (Rafael Casal). Johnny is a jujitsu-trained dentist with a good heart. Amidst family tensions and a high-stakes prison escape mystery, Lee struggles to balance his obsession with uncovering hidden truths and his deep affection for Francis.
Cast and Production Crew
Created, written, directed, and executive produced by Sterlin Harjo (known for FX’s Reservation Dogs), The Lowdown is produced by FX Productions. Executive producers include Garrett Basch, Ethan Hawke, Ryan Hawke, Duffy Boudreau, and Scott Teems.
Key Cast Members
- Ethan Hawke as Lee Raybon
- Tommy Lee Jones as Lee Raybon Senior
- Betty Gilpin as Ginger
- Ryan Kiera Armstrong as Francis
- Keith David as Marty Brunner
- Rafael Casal as Johnny
- Kaniehtiio Horn as Samantha
- Martha Plimpton as Sheriff Vela Thorne
Frequently Asked Questions
When does The Lowdown Season 2 premiere?
Season 2 premiered on Wednesday, October 14, on FX and Hulu, with the first two episodes released simultaneously.
How many episodes are in Season 2?
The second season consists of eight episodes, with weekly releases following the two-episode premiere.
Where can I watch The Lowdown in the U.S.?
Viewers can watch new episodes live on FX and stream the entire season on demand through Hulu or the Hulu on Disney+ bundle.
Who are the major new guest stars in Season 2?
Tommy Lee Jones and Betty Gilpin join the principal cast for the second season, alongside Martha Plimpton.
