Dark Winds Renewed for Fifth Season

AMC Networks orders another installment of the acclaimed crime drama set on the Navajo Nation.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:09pm

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring bold, jagged shapes and silhouettes in high-contrast colors, conceptually representing the crime drama series Dark Winds and its Navajo setting.The acclaimed crime drama Dark Winds returns for a fifth season, continuing to explore traditional stories through the unique lens of the Navajo Nation.Santa Fe Today

AMC Networks has officially renewed the crime drama series Dark Winds for a fifth season. The network has confirmed that Season 5 will premiere in 2027, with filming already underway in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The upcoming season will continue the story following the events of the Season 4 finale, which ended on a cliffhanger with the murder of a key character.

Why it matters

Dark Winds has developed a loyal following for its unique perspective on traditional crime stories, set against the backdrop of the Navajo Nation in the 1970s. The early renewal signals AMC's continued commitment to the series and its creative team, led by showrunner John Wirth, as they explore new narrative directions.

The details

Season 5 will center on the investigation into the murder of Gordo Sena, with lead actors Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn and Martin Sensmeier as Terry Bai returning. The series is also adding new recurring cast members, including Noel Fisher as Michael Jorie and Devin Sampson-Craig as Daniel Ironwater, Jr. Showrunner John Wirth has indicated that the character of Gordo will still have a significant role in the upcoming season despite the character's death.

  • AMC Networks renewed Dark Winds for a fifth season on February 5, 2026.
  • Season 5 is set to premiere in 2027.
  • Filming for the fifth season is already underway in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The players

John Wirth

The showrunner of Dark Winds, who has emphasized the series' use of the New Mexico region as a training ground for Native artists.

Zahn McClarnon

The actor who stars as Joe Leaphorn and is also directing the second episode of the fifth season.

Noel Fisher

The new recurring cast member who will portray Michael Jorie.

Devin Sampson-Craig

The new recurring cast member who will play Daniel Ironwater, Jr.

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What they’re saying

“For four seasons now, AMC Networks has provided us with the opportunity to entertain audiences through the unique lens of a traditional crime story set on the Navajo Nation in 1972. We are one of one and never take this strong support for granted.”

— John Wirth, Showrunner

What’s next

The fifth season of Dark Winds will continue the investigation into the murder of Gordo Sena, which was left unresolved at the end of Season 4.

The takeaway

Dark Winds has established itself as a critically acclaimed crime drama that offers a unique perspective by exploring traditional stories through the lens of the Navajo Nation. The early renewal for a fifth season demonstrates AMC's commitment to the series and its creative team as they continue to develop compelling narratives set in this distinct cultural context.