Questions

What is the plot?

The 2025 History Channel docuseries Sitting Bull unfolds over two parts, narrating the life of the Hunkpapa Lakota chief in a detailed, scene-by-scene fashion.

Part One:

The series opens in the mid-19th century Great Plains during a time of prosperity for the Lakota people. The scene shows peaceful Lakota life, with families and warriors living in harmony with the land. This tranquility is disrupted as American settlers and soldiers begin flooding westward, visibly encroaching on Native lands. The camera captures settlers building forts and railroads, while Native people watch with growing concern.

Sitting Bull is introduced as a young man, shown in scenes of his early life and training. He is portrayed as humble yet fiercely brave. The narrative follows his rise as a leader, with scenes of him speaking to tribal elders and warriors, emphasizing unity among the Lakota and other Native nations. Sitting Bull and the renowned warrior Crazy Horse are seen organizing resistance, holding councils where they plan to defend their people and culture.

The tension escalates with scenes depicting the Washita Massacre, where US forces attack a Cheyenne village, and the Battle of Cedar Creek, showing the brutal clashes between Native warriors and the US Army. Sitting Bull’s resolve hardens; he is shown rallying his people, preparing for a larger confrontation.

The first part ends with Sitting Bull uniting an unprecedented alliance of Native nations, setting the stage for the historic Battle of Little Bighorn. The final scenes show warriors readying for battle, with Sitting Bull delivering a silent, determined gaze to the horizon.

Part Two:

The second part opens with the Battle of Little Bighorn. The viewer sees Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse leading their warriors against General George Armstrong Custer and the Seventh Cavalry. The battle scenes are intense and chaotic, showing the tactical movements and fierce fighting. Sitting Bull’s forces overwhelm Custer’s immediate command, though the series notes that not all of the Seventh Cavalry was wiped out.

Following the battle, Sitting Bull gains worldwide fame. Scenes depict him traveling with Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West show, where he becomes an international celebrity. The series shows Sitting Bull interacting with audiences and dignitaries, highlighting his role as a cultural ambassador.

The narrative then shifts to the continued struggle against US government forces. Scenes portray Sitting Bull’s efforts to protect his people’s freedom and culture amid increasing pressure and violence. The Wounded Knee Massacre is depicted, showing the tragic consequences of the conflict.

The series concludes with Sitting Bull’s death. The final scenes show the circumstances leading to his killing during an attempt to arrest him by Indian police, under US government orders. Sitting Bull’s legacy is honored in closing shots, with interviews and archival material underscoring his enduring impact.

Throughout the docuseries, expert interviews, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments combine to present a comprehensive, factual account of Sitting Bull’s life, his leadership in key battles, and his fight to preserve Native American culture against overwhelming odds.

What is the ending?

⚠ Spoiler – click to reveal

The TV show Sitting Bull (2025) ends with the Lakota leader Sitting Bull uniting Native Nations and leading them to a historic victory against General Custer at the Battle of the Little Bighorn, followed by his later years involving his interactions with Buffalo Bill Cody and his continued fight for his people's survival until his death in 1890.

The ending unfolds scene by scene as follows:

The final episodes open with Sitting Bull, portrayed by Michael Spears, rallying the Lakota and allied Native Nations amid increasing pressure from U.S. settlers and military forces. The tension builds as Sitting Bull’s leadership and spiritual guidance inspire a coalition determined to resist encroachment on their lands.

The narrative then moves to the climactic Battle of the Little Bighorn. Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse prepare their warriors, depicted in detailed reenactments showing the strategic planning and the fierce combat that ensues. The battle scenes are vivid, showing the Native forces overwhelming General George Armstrong Custer’s Seventh Cavalry. Sitting Bull’s role is central, both as a warrior and a unifying figure, leading to a decisive Native victory.

Following the battle, the story shifts to Sitting Bull’s later life. He gains worldwide fame through his association with Buffalo Bill Cody, who features him in his Wild West shows. Scenes depict Sitting Bull navigating this complex relationship, balancing the exposure it brings with his commitment to his people’s dignity and culture.

The final moments portray Sitting Bull’s continued resistance against U.S. government policies and his efforts to preserve Lakota traditions. The series concludes with his death in 1890, marking the end of an era but underscoring his enduring legacy.

Regarding other main characters:

  • Runs His Horse, a close companion, does not survive to the end of the series, his fate shown earlier in the narrative.

  • Teonna, a character connected to Sitting Bull through a brief romance, is shown to have her own journey, eventually heading toward California, with her fate left open-ended.

  • Crazy Horse remains a steadfast ally through the battle and resistance but his ultimate fate is not detailed in the final scenes.

The series emphasizes Sitting Bull’s bravery, humility, and unyielding resolve in the face of overwhelming odds, portraying him as a spiritual and political leader who fought not just battles but for the survival of his people’s way of life.

Is there a post-credit scene?

⚠ Spoiler – click to reveal

The TV show Sitting Bull produced in 2025 does have a post-credit scene. It shows a brief, reflective moment where Sitting Bull, portrayed by Michael Spears, looks out over the plains after the Battle of Little Bighorn, symbolizing both the resilience and the continuing struggle of the Lakota people. This scene is quiet and contemplative, emphasizing the legacy and spirit of Sitting Bull beyond the battle itself.

This post-credit scene serves as a thematic closure, connecting the historical events depicted in the series to the enduring cultural significance of Sitting Bull and his people. It is not an action or teaser scene but rather a solemn tribute to the chief’s lasting impact.

Who portrays Sitting Bull in the 2025 TV series and what is significant about the actor?

Michael Spears, a Kul Wičaša Lakota actor known for his roles in 'Dances with Wolves' and '1923,' stars as Sitting Bull. His casting is significant as it brings authentic Native representation to the role and connects culturally to the character's heritage.

How does the series depict Sitting Bull's role in the Battle of Little Bighorn?

The series dramatizes Sitting Bull's leadership during the Battle of Little Bighorn, highlighting his strategic role in the Sioux victory over General Custer, emphasizing his status as a fierce warrior defending Native lands.

What specific historical figures besides Sitting Bull are featured in the series?

General George A. Custer is a key figure depicted, with attention to details such as his hair length before battle, reflecting historical accuracy efforts. Buffalo Bill Cody also appears, connected to Sitting Bull's international appearances with his Wild West Show.

How does the series portray Sitting Bull's spiritual leadership and personal life?

The show explores Sitting Bull not only as a warrior but also as a holy man and loving father, providing insight into his spiritual guidance of the Lakota people during turbulent times and his human side beyond the battlefield.

What narrative techniques are used to tell Sitting Bull's story in the series?

The series combines dramatic scripted sequences, historical interviews, and rich archival material, narrated by Mo Brings Plenty, to present a multifaceted and authentic portrait of Sitting Bull's life and legacy.

Is this family friendly?

The 2025 documentary series Sitting Bull is generally suitable for family viewing but may contain some potentially upsetting scenes due to its historical subject matter. As it explores the life of the Lakota chief during a turbulent period of American history, it includes depictions of conflicts, battles, and the struggles of Native American peoples defending their lands and culture.

Potentially objectionable or sensitive content for children or sensitive viewers may include:

  • Violence related to historic battles and warfare, including the Battle of Little Bighorn.
  • Scenes depicting the harsh realities of colonization and displacement of Native peoples.
  • Emotional themes involving loss, cultural upheaval, and resistance.

The series is a documentary with a serious tone, narrated by Mo Brings Plenty and starring Michael Spears, aiming to provide an educational and respectful portrayal rather than sensationalized content. It does not appear to contain graphic or gratuitous violence but does not shy away from the difficult historical truths.

Parents or guardians should consider the maturity of younger viewers regarding historical violence and cultural trauma before viewing. The series is rated for general audiences but is best suited for older children and adults interested in history and Native American heritage.