AMC’s acclaimed drama Dark Winds has been renewed for fifth season ahead of its Season four premiere, according to an official AMC press release from AMC Networks. The early pickup signals the network’s continued confidence in the series as it prepares to return with new episodes.
Announcing the renewal before Season four’s debut underscores AMC’s long-term investment in the show. The network confirmed that production on the fifth season is already being planned, positioning Dark Winds for continued expansion within AMC’s scripted programming slate.
Based on Tony Hillerman’s Leaphorn & Chee novels, Dark Winds follows Navajo Tribal Police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee, played by Zahn McClarnon (Reservation Dogs, Doctor Sleep) and Kiwoa Gordan (Rez Ball, Painted Woman), as they investigate crimes across the 1970s American Southwest. Since its premiere, the series has earned recognition for its character-driven storytelling, cultural authenticity, and atmospheric tone. According to the AMC press release, Season four will continue building on narrative threads established in earlier installments, further developing its central characters and investigative arcs.
Showrunner John Wirth addressed the renewal in a statement included in the AMC press release, noting the creative team’s enthusiasm about continuing the story. “We are one of one and never take this strong support for granted. Thanks to everyone at AMC Networks, our talented writing staff, stunning cast, and a Santa Fe crew that’s become a training ground for Native artists, we’re thrilled to be coming back for a fifth season of Dark Winds.” Wirth said, highlighting the opportunity to further develop its characters and long-form storytelling.
AMC Networks cited the show’s strong critical reception and audience engagement as the drivers of the early renewal. The decision solidifies Dark Winds as one of the network’s flagship returning dramas as AMC continues investing in established scripted properties.
mxdwn previously covered early developments surrounding the upcoming season, including AMC’s initial promotional rollout ahead of the Season four premiere. That coverage tracked the network’s trailer debut and first-look preview, both of which helped build anticipation for the series’ return as production and marketing efforts ramped up.
With Season five now confirmed ahead of Season four’s debut, the renewal reflects AMC’s sustained confidence in the series’s creative direction. The announcement confirms that Dark Winds’ investigative storylines and character arcs will continue to expand in future seasons.