According to ‘The Lowdown’s Tracy Letts, Swimming With Sharks Sealed Frank Martin’s Fate
Tracy Letts discussed his experience playing Frank Martin in FX’s The Lowdown and explained how his character’s decisions led to his downfall. The actor also shared why joining A House of Dynamite was an easy choice and teased the upcoming Netflix series East of Eden.
The Story Behind The Lowdown
Created, written, and directed by Sterlin Harjo, known for Reservation Dogs, the FX series centers on citizen journalist Lee Raybon, portrayed by Ethan Hawke, who also serves as executive producer. Raybon, a self-described “truthstorian” from Tulsa, launches an exposé targeting the Washberg family after uncovering a suspicious chain of events.
Power, Secrets, and Consequences
Kyle MacLachlan plays Donald Washberg, who is desperate to keep Raybon from investigating the death of his brother Dale, portrayed by Tim Blake Nelson. Donald’s ambitions to become Oklahoma’s next governor are threatened by secrets involving Dale’s widow Betty Jo (Jeanne Tripplehorn), the private investigator he employs (Keith David), and construction mogul Frank Martin (Tracy Letts).
“When Frank goes further than even he thought he would, it seals his fate in a way that seemed inevitable.”
This moment defines Martin’s tragic arc, marking the point where his moral compromises come full circle.
About the Actor
In interviews, Letts reflected on the parallels between ambition and self-destruction in the series, emphasizing that Frank’s choices mirror a broader theme of corruption and political decay.
Author’s Summary: Tracy Letts explores ambition, power, and downfall through Frank Martin in FX’s The Lowdown, highlighting the cost of moral compromise.