Netflix’s American Primeval is our new obsession! Kim Coates, world-renowned for his iconic role as Alexander “Tig” Trager in Sons of Anarchy, is ready to surprise audiences again with the Netflix miniseries set in the brutal landscape of the American West. We sat down to talk with him about Brigham Young, his character in the series, and the parallels between this new project and his past in television. Ready?
Here we go!
This is America in 1857. Up is down, pain is everywhere, and innocence and tranquility are losing the battle to hatred and fear. Peace is the shrinking minority, and very few possess grace—even fewer know compassion. There is no safe haven in these brutal lands, and only one goal matters: survival. American Primeval is more than a Western or a visceral and emotional dive into America’s origins; it is an exploration of the sacrifices and struggles that shaped the world we live in.
With that premise, Coates gave us a quick rundown of the show and Brigham Young, a man full of contradictions and complexities. He represents a power figure, someone deeply influenced by his faith, and a strategist with a very calculating vision. It’s a role that, as an actor, required him to explore the humanity of someone who is shaping history while also struggling with his own decisions. Coates noted that the emotional intensity of his character was one of the most complex things he faced.
The actor also joked about the similarities between Brigham Young and Alexander “Tig” Trager, his iconic character from Sons of Anarchy. It’s undeniable that they’re both intense men, though their worlds couldn’t be more different. In the end, Tig operates from loyalty to his club and his chosen family, while Young has a broader responsibility: leading his people and establishing a legacy.
But they both share a fierce determination and a willingness to make difficult decisions, even when they’re tormented by them. When asked if these two characters could have been friends, Coates couldn’t help but laugh before answering that would be a big NO. And we couldn’t agree more.
Check Out Our Interview With Kim Coates Below:
American Primeval is available to stream on Netflix.
