Recommended TV: The Outsiders
At RIOT, we’re avid TV watchers. We absolutely adore the ability to watch full seasons in one go while we work. The major problem with that is you end up running out of new shows to watch really quickly. It was a pleasure then to get a text this morning recommending WGN America’s new drama series “The Outsiders” that’s currently streaming on Hulu.
It’s akin to Game of Thrones or Vikings for it’s scruffy, burly, bearded men, but it’s set in the present, not the past or some mythical land. A similar modern day reference would be Sons of Anarchy, with The Outsiders sharing a cast member in Ryan Hurst who played Opie in SOA. He was was one of our favorite characters in that show who (#SpoilerAlert) ended up sacrificing his life for Sam Crow in an emotional, stomach churning prison battle.
The Farrell clan, (which sounds a lot like Feral, which we thought was their name until we looked it up) live in the Kentucky hills and are outcasts to the rest of the town. They have their own leadership, rules and they despise money. The basic storyline of series one revolves around the local coal company trying their hardest to take the Farrell land away from them. Add into the mix internal struggles for leadership and power within the Farrell clan, with Big Foster (David Morse) trying his utmost to dethrone his mother Lady Ray (Phyllis Somerville). The Farrell’s also have their own legendary moonshine that makes one local kid kill his father, claiming he saw him as the devil and, if that’s not fun enough, they speak their own language which we noticed to be a mixture of both Welsh and Gaelic.
Is it brilliant? No it’s not. Is it worth watching? Absolutely, particularly like us if you are suffering from a distinct lack of new shows towards the end of summer. You could call it great timing, but either way we’re going to be watching The Outsiders progress for the rest of this season and next, as Season 2 has already been confirmed. Check out the trailer above for a teaser of what to expect from The Outsiders 2016.
What You Need to Know About ‘Outsiders’ (American TV Series)
“Outsiders” is a gripping American TV series that aired on WGN America from January 2016 to April 2017. Set in the rugged Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky, this drama explores the lives of the Farrell clan, a secluded family who have lived off the grid for over 200 years. Here’s what you need to know about the series and why it gained a loyal following.
1. Plot Overview
At the heart of “Outsiders” is the Farrell family, a mysterious clan that has cut themselves off from modern society. They live on Shay Mountain, operating by their own rules and traditions, fiercely protecting their land from outside threats. The tension arises when a powerful coal company seeks to evict the Farrells to access the rich resources beneath the mountain, setting off a struggle for control over their land.
The show intertwines themes of family loyalty, survival, rebellion, and outsider culture, showcasing a battle between tradition and progress.
2. The Farrell Clan
The Farrells are the focal point of the series. They live in a self-sufficient, anarchic community that follows its own laws, disconnected from the world below the mountain. Their family dynamic is complex, filled with power struggles, personal loyalties, and secrets.
Big Foster Farrell VI, played by David Morse, is the patriarch, while Asa Farrell (played by Joe Anderson) returns to the clan after years of living in mainstream society, creating tension between his old life and the traditions he’s come back to.
3. Major Characters
- David Morse as Big Foster Farrell VI: The clan’s forceful and dominant leader.
- Joe Anderson as Asa Farrell: The prodigal son who returns to the mountain after years away.
- Gillian Alexy as G’Winveer Farrell: A powerful figure within the clan, whose strength is crucial in the family’s internal and external battles.
- Ryan Hurst as Lil Foster Farrell: Big Foster’s son, who grapples with his role under his father’s shadow.
4. Themes in ‘Outsiders’
The series explores the tension between isolation and modernity, depicting the Farrells’ struggle to maintain their way of life while the outside world pushes in. It’s a story about people living on the fringes of society, resisting the pressures of capitalism and industrialization. Themes of freedom, community, and rebellion are central to the plot, making “Outsiders” a show that resonates with viewers who appreciate narratives about independence and resistance.
5. Why Was ‘Outsiders’ Canceled?
Despite positive reviews and a strong fanbase, “Outsiders” was canceled after two seasons. The cancellation was largely due to WGN America shifting away from scripted programming, rather than low ratings or reception issues. Fans were left with unresolved storylines, though the series remains popular among its dedicated audience.
6. Critical Reception
“Outsiders” received praise for its unique setting, intense family drama, and strong performances—particularly from David Morse and Joe Anderson. The show’s depiction of the Appalachian region and the conflict between the modern world and an ancient way of life was well-received by both critics and viewers.
7. Where to Watch ‘Outsiders’
While “Outsiders” is no longer on the air, you can find the series available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu, allowing new audiences to experience the intense and captivating story of the Farrells.
Final Thoughts
“Outsiders” is a powerful drama that explores the lives of an isolated family fighting to maintain their identity and way of life. With its rich themes of freedom, survival, and resistance, it remains a unique entry in American TV history. Whether you’re interested in family dramas, survival stories, or social conflicts, “Outsiders” delivers a compelling and emotional narrative worth watching.
