Last updated on: October 30, 2025
When they’re discussing Hollywood’s up-and-comers, Lewis Pullman is usually in the mix. Yes, he’s Bill Pullman’s son, but come on—Lewis has made a name for himself. He’s not coasting on a surname; he’s established himself as an actor who can bring depth, charm, and a hint of mystery to every part.
You’ve likely spotted him on big-budget movies like Top Gun: Maverick, but where we see his acting chops truly shine is in TV roles. That’s where we watch him stretch, experiment, and really surprise us.
Each actor has that moment—when they cease being “someone’s kid” and become recognized in their own right. For Lewis, television was largely responsible for that changeover.
What’s most impressive? The way he moves between tones so effortlessly. One minute he’s the earthy, steady cowboy brother on Outer Range, then he’s delivering cringe humor on Catch-22. And for real? That’s a welcome change.
The Top 5 Lewis Pullman TV Shows
1. Outer Range (2022–Present)
If you’re into Westerns but wish they had a mind-bending twist, Outer Range is exactly your vibe. Streaming on Prime Video, the show blends family drama with supernatural mystery.
Lewis plays Rhett Abbott, a rodeo cowboy trying to keep his family together while strange things happen on their Wyoming ranch.
Think Yellowstone meets Stranger Things. Pullman? He’s the emotional centerpiece—balancing loyalty, ambition, and family duty. It’s one of his richest performances to date.
2. Catch-22 (2019)
Switching gears to dark humor—Catch-22 is based on Joseph Heller’s timeless novel. Streaming on Hulu, the miniseries takes war and turns it into scathing satire.
Lewis plays the hilariously named Major Major Major Major. While the name itself feels absurd, Pullman brings awkward charm and sharp comedic timing to the role.
This performance proves that he can handle offbeat humor without losing depth.
3. Lessons in Chemistry (2023)
Streaming on Apple TV+, Lessons in Chemistry takes us back to the 1950s, following Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant woman fighting to be taken seriously in science.
Pullman plays Calvin Evans, a renowned chemist who becomes Elizabeth’s professional and romantic partner. His character is supportive, tender, and deeply human—a refreshing role where he shows heart rather than brooding intensity.
This series highlights Pullman’s ability to embody sensitive, grounded characters in a story that resonates with today’s conversations on gender equality.
4. Too Old to Die Young (2019)
Something darker now. Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn (Drive, The Neon Demon), Too Old to Die Young is a crime series unlike any other—slow, violent, and existential.
Lewis stars as Martin Jones, a detective spiraling into corruption after personal tragedy. It’s arguably his toughest TV role—haunting, heavy, and unforgettable.
This isn’t casual viewing, but if you want to see him push his limits, this series lingers with you long after it ends.
5. Highston (2015)
Let’s end on something playful. Highston was an Amazon pilot that never became a series, but it gave us an early glimpse of Pullman’s comedic abilities.
The quirky show followed Highston Liggetts, a 19-year-old with imaginary celebrity friends. Lewis played one of the eccentric family members.
While it didn’t last, it shows Pullman was willing to take risks early on, embracing weird and offbeat projects.
Which Show Stands Out the Most?
If there’s one role that defines Pullman’s TV career so far, it’s Outer Range—his most emotionally complex and widely recognized performance.
But for true range? Catch-22 and Too Old to Die Young perfectly contrast one another: one comedic, one chilling. Meanwhile, Lessons in Chemistry shows his tender side.
The best part? Every role adds a new layer to who he is as an actor.
What’s Next for Lewis Pullman?
With roles like these, it’s easy to imagine a major awards-worthy role in the near future. Pullman has already proven he can handle:
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Leading parts
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Quirky characters
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Morally complex roles
His TV work suggests we’ll continue to see him in projects that push boundaries—and that’s exactly what makes him so exciting to watch.
Final Thoughts
Lewis Pullman’s television career proves that the small screen can be as powerful as the big one.
From the mystery-laden ranches of Outer Range, to the satirical war absurdity of Catch-22, and the heart of Lessons in Chemistry, he’s shown himself to be a fearless and versatile actor.
If you only know him from film, it’s time to explore his TV work. You’ll see an actor who’s not just rising—but one who’s destined to become a legend.
