David Oyelowo's Intensive Year-Long Cowboy Training for 'Lawmen: Bass Reeves'

David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves in ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves.’ Emerson Miller/Paramount+

According to Bass Reeves creator and showrunner Chad Feehan, although Bass Reeves is not precisely like the Yellowstone show, it shares at least one similarity with other series by Taylor Sheridan. "We had a cowboy camp," Feehan revealed exclusively to us before the show's premiere on Sunday, November 5. "The camp went on for approximately a week."

Lead actor David Oyelowo took charge of his own training in preparation for the series, spending over a year practicing on horseback before filming. His dedication and commitment to his craft greatly impressed Feehan. Actors working on shows produced by Sheridan have previously been open about the cowboy camps they attend during pre-production, where they acquire the necessary skills to portray horsemen convincingly on screen. These camps prove to be valuable in learning horse riding, handling guns, and using period weapons. Additionally, the camps provide an opportunity for the actors to bond and develop their on-screen chemistry.

Lauren E. Banks as Jennie Reeves and David Oyelewo as Bass Reeves in ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves.’ Emerson Miller/Paramount+

Oyelowo, who has been working on a Bass Reeves series for years, was determined to bring the project to fruition because it is based on American history. Bass Reeves himself was born into slavery and later became the first Black deputy in the U.S. Marshals after being conscripted to fight for the Confederacy during the Civil War.

“I heard stories about Bass Reeves as a child growing up in Texas,” Feehan shared with Us when explaining his interest in the Paramount+ series. “I've crossed paths with Taylor for some time now, and he recommended me to David Oyelowo, who invited me to dinner. What I initially thought would be a one to one and a half-hour meeting ended up lasting four hours.”

Feehan and Oyelowo, both 47, formed a strong bond during their initial meeting and conversation about Bass Reeves. By the end of the dinner, Feehan secured the position as showrunner.

Although the historical drama is not directly linked to the Yellowstone universe, there are a couple of connections behind the scenes. Mo Brings Plenty, known for his role as Mo in the flagship series, provided expertise as an American Indian consultant for Bass Reeves. Additionally, Sheridan served as an executive producer.

David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves in ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves.’ Emerson Miller/Paramount+

Feehan already has a clear vision for future seasons of Bass Reeves. He envisions the show as an anthology series, with each season exploring the story of a different lawman or outlaw from American history. Whether Bass Reeves will be featured in future seasons or if a new lawman will take the spotlight is still uncertain.

When questioned about other real-life lawmen he has in mind, Feehan remained tight-lipped. He jokingly refused to give away any spoilers, leaving fans curious about what surprises lie ahead.

The first two episodes of Lawmen: Bass Reeves premiere on Paramount+ Sunday, November 5, with additional episodes to follow every Sunday.