Deadwood

Ian McShane in “Deadwood”

We’re huge fans of “Deadwood” which premiered on HBO in 2004. Sadly it had a short run only through 2006.

The series is fantastic for many reasons, but Ian McShane’s portrayal of Al Swearengen instantly became iconic. As the owner of The Gem Saloon, Swearengen is a powerful and manipulative brothel and bar owner who becomes a central figure in the politics and power dynamics of Deadwood. His cursing ability has become legendary and we loved every minute that he was on the screen.

“Deadwood” begins as the town is transitioning from a camp to a town, capturing the lawlessness of the time when crime was rampant, and justice was often taken into the hands of the individual. The series focuses on the community of Deadwood, exploring the interwoven lives of its residents as they navigate issues of governance, commerce, power struggles, and the impact of an influx of wealth following the discovery of gold.

The show was brilliantly written, with amazing dialogue and humor that bordered on high art.

Cast Interviews

Anna Gunn (June 15, 2010)
We interviewed lovely Anna mostly about her role as Skyler on “Breaking Bad,” but she also gave us some great insight as to what it was like to work on “Deadwood”

Ed O’Neill (September 27, 2009)
Can you imagine Ed as Al Swearengen instead of Ian McShane?!? Neither can we, but according to Ed he was offered the role!