ADVANCE REVIEW: Walker: Independence Brings a Modern Feel to the Old West
The CW heads to the Old West in its newest series, Walker: Independence. A sequel to the network’s hit show, Walker starring Jared Padalecki, the series follows Boston native, Abigail Walker (Katherine McNamara). Leaving their old life behind in Boston, Abigail and her husband have set out West for a new beginning in Independence, Texas where her husband is set to become the town’s sheriff. Enroute, Abigail’s husband is murdered, and Abigail is left as the only witness to the crime. Instead of turning tail and heading back to Boston, Abigail continues to Independence to avenge her husband’s death. It is there where she meets an interesting cast of characters, all who have their own secrets to hide including the ragtag Hoyt Rawlins (Matt Barr). Now, Abigail must team up with Hoyt if she ever hopes to put an end to the person who murdered her husband.
The series is very reminiscent of the hit 90s show, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. From the Old West setting to the strong female lead, fans may find themselves comparing the two when all is said and done. But don’t be deceived, the storytelling in Walker is setup a little bit differently and the show feels more like an ensemble show rather than a lead with secondary characters. Yes, Abigail is the clear lead in this series, but the other characters are not merely plot pieces to help elevate her story. They each have their own storylines that weave seamlessly with Abigail’s.
McNamara leads the show as Abigail Walker and was an excellent choice for this role. Abigail is character who could come off as in your face and standoffish, but McNamara plays her more reserve. She brings a sense of calm to the character, as if she is always calculating her next response. Barr plays opposite McNamara as Hoyt Rollins. Barr’s character is one of two characters we meet in the premiere who intrigued me the most. There was something about his performance that left me wanting to learn more about Hoyt and how he came to Independence, TX. The second character that intrigued me the most was Katie Findlay’s Kate. Her character has a control over the town that has yet to be explored and needs to be explored ASAP. You can’t help but side with her character when she is battling women’s wages with the saloon owner or extending a helping hand to Abigail. She is definitely the person I would want in my life if I were new to town.
The other thing to say about this cast is it is extremely diverse. For a period-piece that in the past would have a predominantly white cast, Walker: Independence has opted to go the complete opposite direction. This choice makes the series feel more real and more modern. Everyone should have no problem relating to at least one character in this show.
I highly recommend checking out Walker: Independence if you are a fan of Walker, Westerns, or just looking for a show that will help you unwind after a long day. It is the perfect show to cozy up to with some tasty food. And the best part, if you miss it live you can check it out on the CW app or CW.com the very next day!
Photo credit: Frank Ockenfels 3/The CW