True Detective creator calls Season 4 “stupid” for tying back to the original

The creator of True Detective has slammed Season 4 of the show and called it “stupid” for connecting it to the original batch of episodes starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson.

The fourth season of True Detective has just begun airing, the first episode dropping on January 14, 2024.

Season 4 of True Detective, much like the previous three seasons, boasts a mega cast. The likes of Jodie Foster, Kali Reis, and more all starring in the latest season. And while early reception is overwhelmingly positive, one big name connected to the series is less than pleased with the direction of the narrative.

Nic Pizzolatto, the original creator of True Detective, has slammed the new season, calling it “stupid” for the way in which it has tried to tie the story back to the original. These connections come in the form of Easter eggs mainly, though in some cases, direct relations to earlier characters.

When asked if Rust Cohle will appear, he said "Matthew doesn't show up, nor would he'

S4 showrunner Issa López responded to his comments:

“I believe that every storyteller has a very specific, peculiar, and unique relation to the stories they create, and whatever his reactions…

— Culture Crave 🍿 (@CultureCrave) February 1, 2024

After episode 2 of Season 4 aired, Pizzolatto took to Instagram to share his take on the newest episode. 

The creator laughed and called it “so stupid” that season 1’s Tuttle family is funding the Tsalal research station in Season 4.  When the creator was then asked if had any creative influence or input for Season 4, Pizzolatto replied and added, “I certainly did not have any input on this story or anything else. Can’t blame me.”

In response to a question about the possibility of Rust Cohle returning, the creator said “Matthew [McConaughey] doesn’t show up, nor would he.”

In light of these comments, True Detective Season 4 showrunner Issa López then responded to his critiques during a recent interview with Vulture.

“I believe that every storyteller has a very specific, peculiar, and unique relation to the stories they create, and whatever his reactions are, he’s entitled to them. That’s his prerogative. I wrote this with profound love for the work he made and love for the people that loved it.

“And it is a reinvention, and it is different, and it’s done with the idea of sitting down around the fire, and [let’s] have some fun and have some feelings and have some thoughts. And anybody that wants to join is welcome.”