In Episode 7 of Billy the Kid Season 3, titled “The Last Buffalo,” the series reimagines the iconic outlaw’s legendary duel with Pat Garrett. Streaming now on Amazon Prime Video, the episode presents a climactic confrontation that diverges from historical accounts. Billy the Kid, portrayed by Tom Blyth, takes decisive control of his own mythos, while Garrett, played by Alex Roe, faces a sobering end to their long-standing feud. This creative choice sets the stage for a highly anticipated season finale.
The Duel and Narrative Shifts
Billy the Kid survives the Maxwell House ambush and tracks his former friend and pursuer, Pat Garrett. Garrett, now a disillusioned and financially ruined figure, seeks to restore his reputation through a self-serving book. Billy uses this path to confront him. Governor Catron’s paranoia escalates the stakes, increasing the bounty to $75,000. The duel is portrayed as a solemn, almost ritualistic ending to their feud, with Billy allowing Garrett to draw first before delivering a single precise shot.
Reactions and Critical Analysis
Reuters reporting indicates that the creative team intended to explore themes of agency and legend. Critics note that giving Billy the Kid control over his historical narrative allows the series to blend fact with fiction in a compelling way. Tom Blyth’s performance has been praised for balancing intensity and subtlety, while Alex Roe’s portrayal of Garrett highlights the human cost of obsession and failure. The duel’s treatment reinforces the series’ focus on character-driven storytelling rather than chaotic shootouts.
Impact on Series Arc and Audience Engagement
By altering historical events, the show emphasizes Billy’s authorship of his own legend. This narrative choice has energized fans, creating fresh speculation about the season finale’s direction. With Pat Garrett’s storyline resolved, the spotlight now shifts to Governor Catron and the corrupt Santa Fe Ring as Billy’s final adversaries. Audience reactions across social media highlight excitement for how the series will conclude, praising the balance of historical reinterpretation and dramatic tension.
Series Finale Expectations
The finale promises to focus on Billy’s struggle against political corruption while cementing his legacy. The episode positions him as a figure navigating both justice and survival, with personal and historical stakes intertwined. Viewers can expect the culmination of the Santa Fe Ring arc and potentially unexpected twists in the concluding chapter of Season 3.
Sources
Amazon Prime Video
Reuters Entertainment
Deadline
