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Deadwood Shocker: Child's Death Driven by Drama
12 Apr
Summary
- William Bullock tragically died after being trampled by a horse.
- Showrunner David Milch orchestrated the child's death.
- The death served to develop Seth Bullock's character arc.

The acclaimed Western series "Deadwood" featured one of its most surprising and tragic deaths when young William Bullock met his end. The character, played by Josh Eriksson, died from injuries sustained after being run over by an escaped horse.
This child's death was not accidental but a deliberate narrative choice made by showrunner David Milch. Timothy Olyphant, who portrays Seth Bullock, recalled Milch explaining the decision, stating the character's demise would enhance Seth's own story.
Milch's decision, stemming from unspecified behind-the-scenes issues involving the young actor, proved impactful. William's death profoundly influenced Seth Bullock's narrative arc throughout the remainder of the series.