According to ’The Lowdown’s Tracy Letts, Swimming With Sharks Sealed Frank Martin’s Fate

Tracy Letts discusses his roles and sheds light on why joining projects like A House of Dynamite and the upcoming Netflix limited series East of Eden was an obvious choice for him.

The Lowdown Series Overview

Created, written, directed, and executive produced by Sterlin Harjo (Reservation Dogs), The Lowdown is an FX series centered on citizen journalist Lee Raybon, played by Ethan Hawke, who is also an executive producer. Set in Tulsa, Lee calls himself a "truthstorian" and investigates the Washberg family when turmoil begins to unravel.

Plot and Characters

Donald Washberg (Kyle MacLachlan) aims to become the next governor of Oklahoma but is wary of Lee digging into his brother Dale’s mysterious death.
Donald’s interactions include Dale’s widow Betty Jo (Jeanne Tripplehorn), a private investigator (Keith David) hired to follow Lee, and Frank Martin (Tracy Letts), the owner of Akron Construction and Donald’s partner in a dubious political deal.

Donald’s efforts are constantly undermined by Lee’s persistent investigation. When Frank Martin crosses a line beyond what even he expected, it inevitably seals his fate.

"Swimming With Sharks sealed Frank Martin’s fate in a way that seemed inevitable."

This turning point in the story highlights the inescapable consequences of Frank’s decisions amid rising tensions.

Editor’s Note

The summary contains spoilers for The Lowdown.

Author's summary: Tracy Letts reveals how his character’s risky choices in The Lowdown led to an unavoidable downfall, reflecting broader themes of power and consequence.

Collider — 2025-11-05