Summary
City Primeval showrunners hint at a potential closure for Raylan and Boyd's Western-inspired narrative in season 2, should the show continue, implying that this could serve as their ultimate chapter.
The upcoming season will heavily focus on the intricate dynamics between Raylan and Boyd, particularly their complex relationship and roles as fathers. The show will delve into their evolution over the past decade and the consequences that arise when they reunite.
City Primeval showrunners tease the story between Raylan Givens and Boyd Crowder in season 2, comparing it to a Western. In the previous season, Raylan (played by Timothy Olyphant) was on the verge of retiring to spend time with his daughter when he receives news of Boyd Crowder's (played by Walton Goggins) prison escape. The complicated relationship between the two might be the only thing that could make Givens reconsider his retirement plans.
During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, showrunners Michael Dinner and Dave Andron discuss the focus of Justified City: Primeval season 2, with a particular emphasis on the ongoing rivalry between Raylan and Boyd. They also touch on the final chapter of Raylan's story and provide insight into the future of the crime drama franchise, as season 2 has not yet been confirmed by FX. Dinner elaborates on the dynamic between Raylan and Boyd, stating, "It has always been about these two guys." Here are their quotes:
ANDRON: Boyd is no longer in society, Raylan has retired, Ava has also left society, Boyd has no knowledge of her whereabouts, and he is unaware of his own son's existence. However, if he were to escape from prison, he would become a target for everyone. Hence, there is a significant story to be told, reminiscent of a classic Western. This story would primarily focus on the beginning: the shared experience of two individuals who once worked together in the coal mines when they were 18. There is the possibility of a final chapter, should we choose to pursue it. Alternatively, leaving the story open-ended, with uncertainty as to whether Boyd answered the phone or not, could be quite intriguing.
For me, the essence of the tale has always revolved around these two men. Although the original concluding scene between Raylan and Boyd was poignant, it was built on a falsehood: Raylan pretending that Ava is deceased in order to protect her and their child. Boyd discovering this deception would provide ample material for a remarkable story. So, the question is: how have Raylan and Boyd changed over the past decade? What is the nature of their reunion now? How different are they from before? Furthermore, how has fatherhood altered them individually and impacted their relationship?
DINNER: These two individuals share a common background. They both struggle with unresolved issues with their fathers and yet find themselves in the role of fathers. However, are they adept at being fathers? Boyd is completely oblivious to the existence of his own son. The resolution of their story undeniably revolves around these two characters.
How Justified: City Primeval Season 2 Brings Back Boyd
Initially, it was reported that Boyd would not make an appearance in the Justified revival, a rumor seemingly confirmed by Goggins. However, as Justified: City Primeval season 1 draws to a close, the story takes a turn towards a Kentucky prison. It is in this prison that Boyd delivers a sermon on the power of love, hinting that this may be the last time his fellow inmates hear from him. At first glance, it appears that Boyd may be contemplating his mortality, as he is headed to the hospital to address an undisclosed illness. However, true to his character's history, it becomes clear that he had a cunning plan all along.
With the assistance of his lover, a woman who posed as a guard, they successfully escaped from the van and fled in a conveniently parked car. This captivating scenario sets the stage for a potential second installment of the Justified revival. The show's creative team has expressed their openness to continuing the story if FX decides to renew the series, although there is currently no news regarding that possibility.
Justified: City Primeval made a powerful impact during its debut. As per Reelgood and JustWatch, the revival was the most-watched program across all platforms in its premiere week. Considering Timothy Olyphant's expressed desire to reprise his role as Raylan and the gripping cliffhanger, it is hopeful that there will be further development in the story of Givens and Crowder.
ٍٍSource: EW