Does Isaac die in American Primeval? Character's fate explored in depth

Netflix's American Primeval is among the most incredible new series that the year has kicked off with. The show introduces viewers to a wild and untamed American West, highlighting a brutal chapter of American history when survival was priority.

With Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin playing the key roles, American Primeval takes place in 1857 America, painting a dark and harrowing picture of the era. The series shows how fear and hatred overshadow peace in Fort Bridger, and the only way to survive is through sacrifice.

** Spoilers ahead **

The story dives into clashes between people of different communities, to take control of the frontier. Since sacrifice and determination are the keys, Taylor Kitsch's Isaac Reed is a tracker, and a man who finds it hard to cope with his traumatic path. He sacrifices his life to protect Sara from the bounty hunter.

So does that mean Isaac is no more? Unfortunatley, yes. However, he ensured that he gave his best to come out of his traumatic past and learned to open his heart again. While talking about the character, director Pete Berg describes Isaac as a "broken man," adding:

"Isaac is an irreparably broken man from the beginning. It’s rare that you meet people whose problems and situations in life are so tragic that you actually think that a noble death is maybe the best possible outcome. Isaac is in that strike zone."

The death of his wife and son brought Isaac immense pain, but he finally found hope through Sara. However, his fate was already sealed and, in the end, Isaac embraced death as the only way to redeem his pain-filled existence.

Continue reading to learn more about the character and the series.

What happens to Isaac in Netflix's American Primeval series?

Isaac Reed with Sara, Devin, and Two Moons (Image via Netflix)

Each episode of American Primeval sheds light on the unpredictability of life, as the primary goal for many including Brigham Young and Virgil Cutter is to have more power, even if it means someone's death. Things, however, are different with Isaac. He is haunted by the death of his family until he crosses paths with Sara, Devin, and Two Moons.

In Episode 6, which marks the finale, Devin doesn't want Isaac to part ways with his mother and Two Moons. Sara tells him about his father but Devin doesn't want to meet him and is furious to learn that Isaac won't accompany them now. Isaac tells Devin: "We looked after each other. It's your time to lead now."

Despite the love between the two, Sara decided not to take Isaac with her, as Devin's father would immediately find out the truth.

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After a brief moment of love, they part ways. However, Sara, Devin, and Two Moons are soon threatened by the bounty hunter Cutter who forces them to accompany him at gunpoint.

Thankfully, Isaac arrives on time and killed the bounty hunter. However, he is hit by a bullet during the exchange of fire, which results in his death. This way, he is able to save Sara and the two youngsters through sacrifice.

American Primeval Season 1 ends with Sarah bidding farewell to her love interest and making her way to California. With Isaac’s influence, she discovers her ability to protect not only herself but also Devin and Two Moons and transforms into a woman ready to face the unknown.

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Taylor Kitsch was intrigued by the script of American Primeval TV series

American Primeval has just six episodes (Image via Netflix)

American Primeval isn't the first collaboration between Pete Berg and Taylor Kitsch. The two have earlier worked together on Friday Night Lights and Painkiller. According to Netflix Tudum, Kitsch spoke highly of the character's depth while talking about Isaac Reed. He said:

"There’s something tragically beautiful about Isaac, or at least that’s how I felt..."

The actor continued:

"I never felt more like Isaac than when I was speaking Shoshone, so I loved it. To service the language in any way, I was so proud of that."

To ensure an authentic portrayal, the actor worked with cultural consultants and loved the experience. American Primeval is filled with tension, violence, and the determination to survive, making the historical drama worth a watch.