AMC Renews ‘Dark Winds’ for Season 4: What to Expect

AMC has officially renewed the psychological thriller Dark Winds for a fourth season, set to premiere in 2026. The announcement comes ahead of the third season’s March 9, 2025 premiere.

Season 4: Highlights

Zahn McClarnon’s directorial debut: Star and executive producer Zahn McClarnon will make his directorial debut this season. “I’m excited to continue exploring the character of Joe Leaphorn and take the next step in my directing career on a project that has special meaning to me,” he said.

Production in New Mexico: Filming began in March 2025 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with eight one-hour episodes, similar to the previous season.

New cast members: Franka Potente and Chaske Spencer have been confirmed for season 4, promising fresh elements to the storyline.

How to watch Dark Winds
AMC & AMC+: Season 3 is currently available on AMC.com (cable login required) and AMC+.

Netflix: The first two seasons are available on Netflix. Season 3 is expected to arrive on the platform in 2026.

Other platforms: Viewers can also access AMC+ through services like Prime Video, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Philo.

About Dark Winds
Dark Winds is a psychological thriller set in 1971 in the Four Corners region, following Navajo tribal police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee as they investigate complex cases. The show is highly appreciated for its engaging storyline and excellent performances by the cast, especially Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn.

Notable Points in Season 4
Zahn McClarnon’s directorial debut

This season marks a turning point in the career of Zahn McClarnon (playing Joe Leaphorn) when he first took on the role of director.

McClarnon is not only the star but also the executive producer of the series, and season 4 will reflect his unique creative perspective.

Continuing the dramatic detective story

Dark Winds season 4 promises to continue to bring mysterious cases full of tension and mind-boggling battles, full of psychological and cultural nuances of the Navajo people.

The cases will delve deeper into complex conspiracies, revealing more secrets in the main character’s past.

Promising New Cast

Franka Potente and Chaske Spencer will join the cast, bringing new nuances to the story.

The appearance of new characters is expected to create interesting interactions with Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee.

Deep exploration of Navajo culture

Season 4 will continue to explore Navajo culture and traditions, highlighting the contrast between indigenous beliefs and the modern world.

Scenes filmed in New Mexico will further enhance the authenticity and uniqueness of the film.

Investment in images and sound

The episodes are invested in elaborate visual effects and music, helping to clearly depict the mysterious, mystical atmosphere of the American West in the 1970s.

The vivid sound and haunting background music will contribute to the attraction for the audience.

(At this time, the soundtrack details for Dark Winds season 4 have not been officially announced. However, based on the musical style of previous seasons, we can expect that season 4 will continue to use classic rock, folk, and songs by indigenous artists to create the characteristic atmosphere of the series.

Musical Style in Previous Seasons

Classic Rock and Folk: Previous seasons have used songs such as “Space Oddity” by David Bowie, “Love the One You’re With” by Stephen Stills, and “Midnight Rider” by Gregg Allman to reflect the 1970s setting and enhance the emotions of the scenes.

Indigenous Music: The series has also integrated songs by indigenous artists such as “B.I.A.” by Floyd Red Crow Westerman and “Veterans Song” by Delbert Blackhorse to honor Navajo culture and enhance the authenticity of the story.

Soundtrack Original: Kevin Kiner and his children, Sean and Deana Kiner, composed the score for Dark Winds, which combines electronic sounds and traditional instruments to create a mysterious and tense atmosphere that fits the content of the show.

Predictions for season 4

With Zahn McClarnon taking on the role of director for season 4, it can be expected that music will continue to play an important role in conveying emotions and developing characters. The soundtrack is expected to continue to be composed by Kevin Kiner and his colleagues, combined with the selection of songs that fit the context and mood of each scene.

When the official information about the season 4 soundtrack is announced, I will update so you can explore more.)

Why is season 4 worth looking forward to?

With the participation of Zahn McClarnon himself, who is deeply familiar with the character of Joe Leaphorn, the season promises to bring emotional depth and new perspectives.

The introduction of new characters and plot developments will help the series continue to keep viewers hooked unexpected twists and turns.

Dark Winds Season 1 – Blu-ray: Blu-ray edition of the first season, highly rated with 4.6/5 stars from 72 reviews.

Dark Winds: Season 1-2 (Blu-ray): Collection includes the first two seasons, ideal for those who want to start following the series.

Dark Winds: Season 2: Standalone edition of the second season, suitable for those who already own the first season.