Exclusive Interview: Mason Beals on His Evolution and Embracing the Journey in ‘Elkhorn’ Season 2

Few figures in American history loom as large as Theodore Roosevelt, and few actors have captured his spirit with as much nuance as Mason Beals. As the heart of Elkhorn, Mason embodies a man defined by contradictions—resilient yet reflective, powerful yet deeply human. Reeling from unimaginable loss, 25-year-old Roosevelt abandons New York politics and journeys to the lawless Dakota Badlands, where he establishes the sprawling Elkhorn Ranch and attempts to remake himself into a cattleman. It’s in this wilderness that the series finds its soul, and where Mason delivers one of his most compelling performances to date.

With Elkhorn’s second season, Mason returns to a role that has evolved alongside him. He approaches the character with a renewed sense of confidence and curiosity, reflecting on the lessons learned from Season 1 and the ways both he and TR have grown. It’s a continuation not just of a story, but of a personal and creative evolution that mirrors the show’s own expanding scope.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to chat with Mason about that evolution—from his early days stepping into the Rough Rider’s boots to how embracing imperfection has shaped both his performance and perspective. He opens up about his process, the camaraderie of the cast, and what it means to find joy in the journey.

PC: There are so many cultural and generational nuances and mannerisms to consider when portraying a real-life figure. What was your research process like in doing justice to your portrayal of Teddy Roosevelt? And how instrumental were the physical training and wardrobe in helping you capture his essence on screen?
Mason: I primarily focused my research on the period of his life when the show takes place. Before my first self-tape, I listened to one of the few recordings of his speeches. I decided to tone the voice down by about half since it was a public address, and I figured he probably didn’t speak that way with his colleagues (though who knows—he was larger than life). The wardrobe for a project like this definitely helps ground you in the character, but the real moment everything clicks is when the glasses go on. As soon as they do, it all locks in.

PC: In addition to your work as an actor, you’re also a writer and director. How has that experience behind the camera influenced the way you approach your performances on screen—especially in a medium like television, where you’re constantly evolving with each episode—and vice versa?
Mason: There are a lot of little practical things. For example, I think I’ve gotten really good at moving just the right amount when the director of photography asks me to cheat in a certain direction—I feel like I nail it on the first try every time, and it’s a small point of pride. Beyond that, it’s helped me take direction even more seriously. As artists, we can sometimes think our way is best, but there’s a real skill in being able to take a note and genuinely implement it into a performance.

PC: So much of your character’s journey in Season 1 was about growth, which feels like an interesting parallel to your own. What’s the biggest lesson you took from that first season that you’ve carried with you into Season 2?
Mason: I think I took the role even more seriously in Season 2. I took it seriously in Season 1, of course, but after watching myself, I was able to see what I wanted to improve—and luckily, I got the chance to make those changes. I was pretty green going into that first season, and it taught me an enormous amount about acting, lessons I’m eternally grateful for.

PC: You’ve really embraced this entire experience. Looking back, what scene do you think that kid from Idaho would be most excited to see—whether it’s from Season 1 or Season 2?
Mason: I just think seeing the final product is so cool. When you’re performing or creating something, it’s hard to really see it for what it is in the moment. My younger self would be proud that I was able to overcome a lot of anxiety and fear—and that I learned to trust the process, both in life and in filmmaking.

PC: There are so many different sides to this character. Which has been your favorite to explore and why? And if we’re lucky enough to get a third season, what aspects of that journey would you most like to keep developing and really dive deeper into?
Mason: I’ve always appreciated exploring the flaws of a character. What I loved about the first season was that we got to see the real shortcomings of a great man, which I think is rare for this kind of role. I appreciated that the writers and producers weren’t overly concerned with making TR always look good—he’s human, and he shouldn’t be flawless by any means. In the second season, I had the chance to explore his more enthusiastic side. He’s worked through some of his grief, so I felt like TR and I were able to enjoy the experience a bit more. He was just so full of life, and I hope we get to keep exploring that.

PC: This show has been so well received. What do you think it is about the story or these characters that’s resonating most with audiences?
Mason: The recent premiere we had in Medora, North Dakota really sealed something in for me—we’re one big family making this show. That premiere felt like a family trip. I think when you truly love what you do, people can feel it. We all love being part of this somewhat niche concept, and we genuinely love working with each other. I think audiences connect with that energy—they like the cast, the characters, and the heart behind it all. As long as we keep enjoying the work, people will continue to feel that. It’s like eating a really great breakfast sandwich from a mom-and-pop place—it’s made with so much love that it somehow stacks up against even the most “advanced” restaurants… if that makes sense.

To keep up with Mason, follow him on Instagram. Elkhorn airs every Thursday at 9/8c on INSP.

Photo Credit: INSP