Jordan Peele appears to have taken a page from Beyoncé‘s book, aiming to challenge whitewashed cowboy mythology.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the acclaimed filmmaker, who made history as the first African American to win the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay with Get Out, will write, direct, and executive produce the project for Peacock. This series aims to challenge and rewrite the traditionally whitewashed portrayal of cowboys in American mythology, expanding on themes explored in Peele’s previous works, such as his 2022 thriller Nope.
“The untitled Black cowboy docuseries will rewrite a foundational piece of American history, unmasking the forces that erased the identity of the Black cowboy from frontier history and present. Stories of real cowboys will take viewers on a thrilling odyssey that connects to the heart of the resurgence of Black cowboy culture that we see today across music, art, fashion and film in a three-part series to premiere on Peacock,” the official description reads.
“Nope gave a nod to the deep history of Black cowboys in America, and this docuseries offers a full exploration of their lives and contributions to today’s cultural landscape. Told through the singular lens of Jordan Peele, this series is every bit as entertaining as it is enriching. It’s been a thrill for [Universal Television Alternative Studio] to collaborate with Jordan, Monkeypaw, Keith and the team on what is a truly special project, and we’re excited to share it with fans,” Universal Studio Group chairman, Pearlena Igbokwe, told the outlet in a statement.
Although there’s no official release date for the series yet, Jordan Peele has been diligently working on a secret film project scheduled to premiere on Christmas Day this year (December 25, 2024).
“This has been…obviously, it’s been an interesting year because the writer’s strike had had me in a state of listening, and that’s where I need to be,” Peele said on the Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend podcast when asked about his new movie. “I do feel like my next project is clear to me, and I’m psyched that I have another film that, you know, could be my favorite movie if I make it right.”
Overall, Jordan Peele’s ability to blend horror, humor, and social commentary has earned him a dedicated fan base and established him as one of the most innovative filmmakers working today.