Zahn McClarnon: Our case for the Emmy underdog
By Ashley Davis
Guess what? It’s Emmy season–and our vote goes to Zahn McClarnon as Akecheta, along with a few others!
As you know, Emmy nominations are coming out soon! Along with the fabulous Thandie Newton, a popular choice for an outstanding performance on Westworld is Zahn McClarnon as Akecheta (introduced in the episode “Kiksuya”).
He may not have featured in the early parts of this season, but that was certainly an Emmy-worthy performance with Julia Jones. Let’s talk about some reasons why Zahn deserves to be on that ballot for Best Drama Supporting Actor (especially now that Jeffrey Wright has been bumped to a lead role).
Zahn McClarnon as Akecheta
Aside from the breathtaking cinematography and unmatched writing on this episode, Zahn McClarnon’s Akecheta was easily one of Westworld season 2’s most memorable characters. “Kiksuya” was my personal favorite episode in the second season, and it’s not just the scenes or the writing—it’s the execution that brings it home.
Our case for the nomination:
Authenticity
As a member of the indigenous population, I appreciated the authenticity and Lakota spirit that the actor brought to the role. Natives are often wrongly depicted or shown with a variety of misconceptions about their culture, and it’s fantastic to see an actor staying true to his while in character.
Is it perfect? No. But it’s absolutely good enough for me in terms of authenticity. Not only that, but this would actually be the first time a Native actor has been nominated for a series by the television academy. Groundbreaking, but long overdue for this acclaimed actor.
Character chemistry
Bringing a robot to life is hard in general, but Akecheta was real on so many levels, especially in his relationship with Kohana, played by the talented Julia Jones, who was perfect for her part. It’s not often that I’m moved this much emotionally by an on-screen relationship, and they managed to accomplish that and more in a single episode!
“Take my heart when you go” is one of the most memorable television dialogue exchanges I’ve ever seen, and fans seem to agree.
Blending into the narrative
Akecheta effortlessly blends himself seamlessly into the narratives of Ghost Nation, Maeve’s daughter, and the overarching quest for consciousness without a hitch. Usually, transitions like this are bumpy and have a few rough edges, but this fell into place beautifully, both due to the writing and McClarnon’s outstanding and nuanced performance.
He added something fundamental to each of those characters, each of those parts. It takes subtlety and skill to fit into each of those pieces and make them one, but this actor has accomplished just that.
Connection to the overall theme
Akecheta represents the season as a whole in many ways. What is reality? What is self-awareness, and what does that say about who we truly are?
Next: Westworld: 5 most unexpected moments from season 2
From his first moment riding across the dunes to his reunion with Kohana in the finale–I feel like this character has managed to capture the spirit of Season 2’s entire message and provided us with insights into humanity, what makes us real, and how moments define reality.
Akecheta’s dialogue
The writers did an outstanding job on this episode, and Akecheta is given some of the best lines of the series. Without the spot-on execution by Zahn McClarnon, they would not have had the impact they did.
My defining moment was the quote, “We have died countless times. If we die once more, at least the story was our own,” followed by the strong clasping of arms. It says everything about the character, the story, the culture, themes of consciousness, and the overall show narrative in one simple moment.
Closing out the season
Without Akecheta’s performance at the Forge, the finale would not have been the powerful statement it was. McClarnon’s portrayal of brotherhood, strength from one’s tribal family, and an everlasting devotion to a true love were the strongest moments of the finale for me.
I don’t cry easily, with years of experience in the horror and sci-fi industries, but that embrace in the Valley was everything I wanted from Season 2 and brought me to tears.
Current predictions for Zahn McClarnon
Current polls aren’t rating his odds as high, but we should boost the narrative. A performance like that more than deserves all the accolades it can get.
Give Your Opinion!
What were your favorite Akecheta moments? Who do you think is going to be up for a nomination? Tell us in the comments and stay tuned for Emmy predictions and news from us!