'Barkskins': Zahn McClarnon as Yvon wows fans as they laud him for bringing 'excellent characters to life'
Spoilers for 'Barkskins' Season 1 Episode 1 'New France'
In the late 1600s, France and Britain fought desperately to gain control over the wilderness, land and resources of New France. A large and sparsely populated territory, the region was abundant in resources, which made it attractive to colonial powers. National Geographic's new series 'Barkskins' explores the encroachment of the land by different powers all of who have vested interest in New France. Based on the 2016 best selling novel of the same name by Annie Proulx, the series examines the massacre of settlers in the area which is now threatening to send the entire region into war.
Early in the series, Wobik, which is where the series is set, gets two new visitors -- Hamish Goames (Aneurin Barnard) and Yvon (Zahn McClarnon). They are here to investigate the disappearance of an English agent who worked with the Hudson's Bay Company. Upon arrival, the answers they are seeking are not given to them easily. The locals, both the French and English, in fact prove to be a hindrance in their investigation and data them from finding answers.
Yvon, who is a Harvard-educated Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) man of the Hudson’s Bay Company, works closely with Hamish. It took no time for the character to become favorite among audiences. Mostly because viewers are fans of the actor. "You know Barkskins is going to be a good show because @ZahnMcClarnon is in it!" tweeted a fan just as the series gave McClarnon's first appearance. "YES! Zahn McClarnon is in #Barkskins what an unexpected treat! I knew this was going to be good @ZahnMcClarnon," added another.
"It's always a pleasure watching @ZahnMcClarnon work. Between this, The Son & Longmire, he brings excellent characters to life" tweeted a fan of the actor. The actor is long known for his performance of Police Chief Mathias in 'Longmire' and as Toshaway in 'The Son'.
An hour in, 'Barkskins' has gathered praise for its not only its stellar cast and story but its approach to the tale of the 1690s. "As a student of history & someone who grew up & lives in what was New France, this is excellent, not a period of time seen," wrote a fan while another added, "As with all shows, it could use more zahn mcclarnon, but i have bought in because everyone knows i am obsessed with stories of colonial contact. GIVE ME THE CONCLUSION NOW!!! #barkskins"
'Barkskins' airs on National Geographic on Mondays at 9/ 8c.