Exclusive Interview: Saura Lightfoot-Leon and Derek Hinkey Talk ‘American Primeval’ and Its Powerful Storytelling

Saura Lightfoot-Leon and Derek Hinkey

This is America…1857. In a world where up is down, pain is everywhere, and peace is a fleeting rarity, survival is the only thing that matters. American Primeval dives headfirst into this brutal landscape, offering a fictionalized dramatization of the violent collision of culture, religion, and community as men and women fight to keep—or control—the land. Against this raw and unrelenting backdrop, Saura Lightfoot-Leon and Derek Hinkey deliver transformative performances that explore resilience, identity, and unexpected connections.

Pop Culturalist spoke with Saura and Derek about what it was like to immerse themselves in such a visceral and intense story, how filming in the elements shaped their performances, and the profound impact of telling a story that examines the complexities of survival, compassion, and humanity.

PC: Saura, there’s such an emotional journey you take audiences on with your character as she fights for survival and defies the expectations imposed on her by society. Your performance is so visceral and raw that audiences immediately connect with her. As an actress, how did you create the space to explore both vulnerability and strength? How did filming on location influence your creative process?
Saura: Thank you for saying that—that’s really sweet. It was a mixture of things. As an actress, what you strive to create is that space where all the work you’ve prepared beforehand dissolves when you’re on set, allowing you to focus on being present in the moment and responding to what’s happening. We were immersed in the elements the entire time, so everything I was doing was a blend of what was happening internally, my imagination, and the incredible support from the cast and crew who made it possible. When you have scene partners as generous and wonderful as Derek, a lot of the work becomes easier.

PC: Derek, you shared a beautiful post on social media about your journey from being a stuntman with one line to now becoming one of the leads of this series. This feels like a breakout moment for you. What was the most surprising part of this experience for you? What did you learn about your craft while embodying this character?
Derek: I wasn’t surprised by the story because I know my history. What caught me off guard was the production team and everyone being open to listening and allowing input. I used to argue with my history teacher in school. I would say, “You went to college and studied my people, and now you’re telling me who I am.” That’s not right. I feel like American Primeval is an educational lesson for audiences from my people. We’re telling our own stories. That was surprising to me and a beautiful thing to witness.

PC: Absolutely. I love how the series doesn’t shy away from showing the ugliness and violence of our history. This question is for both of you: the dynamic between your two characters exemplifies how we’re more similar than different. Despite language barriers, they’re still able to find a connection. Without giving any spoilers, what do you think your character learns from your co-star’s character?
Saura: I think Red Feather gives Abish a foundation to ground herself. She’s a force in her own right, but she’s a bit lost. He’s like a compass, helping her channel her energy.

Derek: They balance each other. He sees this defiant warrior woman and watches her evolve and grow. She brings balance to him because he’s lost—due to the things he’s experienced in life, mostly bad, like losing his family. In my culture, they say that you will always look for yourself without relying on outside sources, but there will be people who remind you that you need balance, and she does that for him.

PC: This series feels like a cinematic masterpiece. It’s as if audiences are on this six-hour journey alongside each of you. What was your reaction when you saw the final cut?
Saura: It was heavy. It’s one thing to film it, but then to have some time away from the show and finally see the completed version—it was like a kick to the heart and gut, but in the best way.

Derek: It was incredibly deep. This experience is something I will cherish for the rest of my life, especially the time I got to spend with everyone.

Make sure to follow Derek on (Instagram). American Primeval is available now on Netflix.

Photo Credit: Matt Kennedy/Netflix

Kevin

Kevin is a writer living in New York City. He is an enthusiast with an extensive movie collection, who enjoys attending numerous conventions throughout the year. Say hi on Twitter and Instagram!

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