Jennifer Carpenter on Her ‘1923’ Character: “I don’t think Mamie is out for alliances.”

Jennifer Carpenter brings fire and focus to 1923 with her role as Mamie Fossett in Season 2 Episode 2, which dropped on Paramount+ on March 2. Mamie is a historical figure based on one of the first female U.S. Marshals. Carpenter’s portrayal is of a strong and composed character who stands firmly for justice.

In her debut scene, Mamie makes a strong impression when she confronts Marshal Kent, played by Jamie McShane. Kent, known for his bigoted and violent actions, tries to undermine her authority.

When he questions her credibility as a U.S. Marshal, Mamie quickly fires back, calling him a “bigot” and pointing out that he’s “living in the wrong century.” Her calm yet fierce demeanor sets the tone for her character’s unwavering sense of justice. She also warns Kent, “this is not Montana,” making it clear that things work differently in her territory.

Mamie’s mission is to help track down Teonna Rainwater (Aminah Nieves), who is accused of killing nuns at a religious school in Season 1. Though Teonna did kill the nuns, it’s revealed that years of abuse at the hands of the school led her to this point.

Carpenter suggests that while Mamie’s role is to uphold justice, she may sympathize with Teonna’s struggle. But Mamie is not one to make alliances based on personal feelings. She is laser-focused on her duty and believes in upholding a new, fair standard of law.

“I don’t think Mamie is out for alliances,” Carpenter said. “I think that the alignment and the alliances that she needs, she has. And that’s why her spine is so erect and her focus is focused like a laser beam on the task at hand.”

Mamie’s commitment to justice extends to confronting people like Kent, who murdered an Indigenous child in the Season 2 premiere. The brutal act was done to intimidate the community and discourage them from protecting Teonna.

“While she can compute it, I don’t know that she feels like she has to align with it,” Carpenter added. “It can be present and it can all be true. But I think that the structure of the new law of the new government and setting a new standard is what’s paramount. And it sort of trumps any individual’s feeling. It’s about erecting a new way that people can count on.”

Despite the horror of this act, Mamie’s priority is holding those in power accountable. Carpenter’s Mamie is determined to change the system, not just uphold it.

If you love Yellowstone, don’t miss out on this powerful addition to the 1923 series.