Not Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone, but this 2010 FX series starring Timothy Olyphant is the OG of the neo-western genre - Here's why

Timothy Olyphant as Raylan Givens | Image via Sony Liv
Timothy Olyphant as Raylan Givens | Image via Sony Liv

John Dutton from Yellowstone is often compared with Raylan Givens from Justified.

Justified (2010) is the real forerunner of the neo-Western genre in contemporary TV. Released on FX in 2010, it ran for six seasons and offered an original approach to the legacy of western narratives in a modern world. U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, portrayed by Timothy Olyphant, was considered to possess the spirit of the old western heroes and to overcome the trouble of contemporary crime.

The series combined rapid lines with retreat and the richness of characters & presented a natural style. Justified showed that westerns did not require ranches or family sagas to become a cultural phenomenon, much before Yellowstone did. Clearly, it was memorable for its brilliant writing and strong protagonist.

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What made Raylan Givens special?

John Dutton from Yellowstone | Image via Netflix
John Dutton from Yellowstone | Image via Netflix

Raylan Givens, played by Timothy Olyphant, is one of the most memorable characters on television. Raylan is a lawman with his own code and composed strength with a definite idea of right and wrong. He also does not have to rely on family power, as John Dutton does in Yellowstone. According to IMDb reviewers, Raylan is praised for his charm & genuineness.

In Justified, there is his personal conflict with his ex-wife, Winona, as well as the shadow of his father, Arlo. The exorbitant price of his work and his decisions are unveiled in the show. Raylan is not chasing legacy or empire. It is a story of survival and redemption, complete with terpleness and a relevant soul.


Sharper writing & faster pacing

Yellowstone & Justified | Images via Prime Video & JustWatch
Yellowstone & Justified | Images via Prime Video & JustWatch

The point of difference between Justified and Yellowstone is that each of the series narrates its story differently. Justified is fast-paced and full of snappy dialogue and quippy one-liners, as well as a standoff that will keep the viewer glued in nearly every episode. The language is lean and not time-wasting in any way, and as such, the show has a brisk pace that is exhilarating.

Yellowstone builds its drama slowly across long arcs that stretch through entire seasons. At times, it can feel heavy with its large cast and political plots, while Justified stays focused and clear. Early seasons often wrapped up complete stories in a single episode, yet the show still built a strong mythology and deep character growth. This balance made Justified stylish, efficient, and always fresh.


The greatest antagonist

Boyd Crowder | Image via Sony Liv
Boyd Crowder | Image via Sony Liv

One of the villains that cannot be forgotten on current television is Boyd Crowder. Boyd, played by Walton Goggins, provided depth to this TV show. Walton was supposed to die in the pilot, but the writers kept him after his strong performance. Boyd became more than just a rival to Raylan.

He was a reflection of Raylan, a man who could preach scripture in one moment and set off an explosion in the next. His goals were not land or money but identity and pride. The tension between Boyd and Raylan gave the show its sharpest edge. Boyd was not just a villain. He was its beating heart.


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Edited by Yesha Srivastava