Jordan Peele’s ‘High Horse’ Documentary Redefines the Forgotten Black Cowboy

A new documentary is challenging America’s long-held mythology of the Wild West. “High Horse: The Black Cowboy,” executive produced by Jordan Peele, premiered this week on Peacock. The three-part docuseries aims to correct the historical record.

It highlights that Black men were among the first American cowboys. This fact has been largely erased from popular culture and Hollywood westerns.

Uncovering a Deliberately Erased History

The project is an extension of Peele’s 2022 film “Nope.” That movie featured a Black-owned horse ranch. It also referenced the unknown Black jockey in Eadweard Muybridge’s “The Horse in Motion.”

According to The Associated Press, the documentary uses archival footage and photos. This evidence provides a more complete picture of the Old West. It documents vibrant Black cowboy communities that still exist across the United States.

The series explores systemic racism and land ownership battles dating to Reconstruction. Keisha Senter of Monkeypaw Productions called this erasure a “horror story.” The timing is critical amid current political debates over diversity programs.

Cultural Impact and Modern Resonance

The documentary arrives during a pop culture moment for Black western themes. It features appearances from Glynn Turman, Pam Grier, and Tina Knowles. Rapper Bun B is a prominent voice, sharing his experience as a Houston Rodeo headliner.

Bun B told The Associated Press that this is not an attempt to assimilate. He stated that Black people have been prevalent in this space for years. He emphasizes that this is an American story, not just a Black one.

Recent works like Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” and “The Harder They Fall” have paved the way. This documentary provides the crucial historical context for these modern expressions. It seeks to turn everything people know about cowboys on its head.

“High Horse: The Black Cowboy” provides a vital correction to the historical narrative. The docuseries powerfully reclaims an erased legacy. This Jordan Peele project ensures the Black cowboy’s story is finally told.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main goal of the ‘High Horse’ documentary?

The docuseries aims to refute America’s pop culture image of cowboys. It highlights that Black men were the first American cowboys. The project corrects a deliberately erased part of history.

Where can viewers watch the new documentary?

The three-part series is currently streaming on Peacock. It is available to all subscribers of the NBCUniversal platform. No additional purchase is required.

How does this project connect to Jordan Peele’s film ‘Nope’?

“Nope” featured a Black-owned horse ranch in California. It also referenced the erased Black jockey in early motion photography. The documentary expands on these themes of historical omission.

Why is this documentary releasing now?

It arrives amid a cultural moment for Black western themes. It also confronts current political debates surrounding diversity and historical accuracy. The timing makes its message particularly urgent.

Who are some of the key figures featured in the series?

The documentary includes rapper Bun B and actor Glynn Turman. Pam Grier and Tina Knowles also make appearances. Their personal experiences help tell this broader American story.