American Primeval is a miniseries that was released on January 9, 2025 and is available to watch on Netflix. The show revolves around the content of the 19th century in the Utah territory, the cultural and religious struggles during this era, and the battle to control the American West. The show consists of six episodes and was created by Mark L. Smith.
Featuring Taylor Kitsch as Isaac, Betty Gilpin as Sara Rowell, Dane DeHaan as Jacob Pratt, and Saura Lightfoot-Leon as Abish Pratt, American Primeval delivers a gripping narrative filled with conflict, survival, and human ambition.
For fans of intense historical drama, this show is perfect due to its deep plot of determination and identity based in a hostile world.
If the Netflix series left an impression, consider exploring the following five shows, each offering gripping stories and compelling characters in a similar vein.
Deadwood and 4 other series like American Primeval
1) Deadwood (2004-2006)
HBO’s Deadwood is a classic Western series that viewers of the new Netflix miniseries should not miss. Set in the lawless town of Deadwood during the 1870s gold rush, the show combines historical figures with fictional characters to create a gripping narrative. It explores themes like power, corruption, and survival, making it a perfect companion to Netflix’s latest hit.
With Ian McShane delivering a memorable performance as saloon owner Al Swearengen, Deadwood immerses viewers in the brutal realities of frontier life across three seasons.
Where to watch: HBO
2) Outlander (2014-present)
While Outlander leans more toward historical romance, its exploration of cultural clashes and survival mirrors some of American Primeval’s themes. The series, based on Diana Gabaldon’s novels, follows Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who is transported back to 18th-century Scotland.
Rich with historical detail and emotional depth, Outlander offers an intense look at political unrest, family loyalty, and love amid chaos. It spans multiple timelines, providing a fresh twist to the historical drama genre that fans of American Primeval may enjoy.
Where to watch: Netflix
3) Godless (2017)
Netflix’s Godless is another series that shares thematic similarities with American Primeval. The seven-episode limited series focuses on the residents of La Belle, a New Mexico mining town populated almost entirely by women after a mining accident.
When a fugitive seeks refuge in La Belle, the town becomes the center of a tense battle for survival. With its stunning visuals and strong female characters, Godless captures the rugged beauty and brutality of the West, making it an excellent follow-up for fans of American Primeval.
Where to watch: Netflix
4) The Alienist (2018-2020)
Set in 1896 New York City, The Alienist takes a different but equally gripping approach to historical storytelling. It is a psychological thriller about a team that solves the murders of boy prostitutes, facing resistance from corrupt NYPD officials.
In season 2, they investigate a kidnapped diplomat’s child, uncovering a new killer and societal corruption.
Featuring Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans, and Dakota Fanning as the leading casts, The Alienist presents itself as a well-balanced fusion of mystery with history.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Netflix
5) Into the West (2005)
Into the West, a work by Steven Spielberg, follows two families—Native American and settler, through six episodes—to tell the epic story of settling the American West. The drama spans several generations, painting vivid pictures of cultural and personal conflicts that define the history of America.
Like American Primeval, Into the West discusses the issues with expansion and the clash of culture, making the show a story with many layers that historical drama fans would really appreciate.
Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime
Meanwhile, all six episodes of the miniseries American Primeval are now available for online streaming on Netflix.