Yellowstone engrossed its audience with the intricate fates of its characters throughout the latter half of its final season, leaving some with satisfying conclusions while others faced poignant tribulations. Initially, Taylor Sheridan’s revolutionary neo-Western series opened season 5, part 2 with the shocking news of John Dutton III’s (played by Kevin Costner) demise just ahead of his impeachment hearing. This narrative twist was necessitated by Costner’s departure from the series before the conclusion of these final episodes; however, it left fans divided, as the storyline felt less pivotal in the unfolding drama of the concluding season.
Subsequent episodes predominantly explored various subplots, often diverting attention to the events at the 6666 Ranch in Texas or surfacing tragedies at the principal ranch, overshadowing key character arcs.
15 Colby Met His End in a Horse Accident
His Untimely Demise Was Both Unnecessary and Heartbreaking
Colby’s unexpected death was rendered even more tragic by his recent confession of love to Teeter (Jennifer Landon) just before the incident. Instead of achieving the joyful ending both characters deserved, Colby met a senseless end, leaving Teeter to seek employment in Texas under the contentious Travis (Taylor Sheridan).
14 Beth Cast Summer Out
Summer’s Role Was So Minor That She Lacked a Genuine Conclusion
After John’s death, a distraught Beth (Kelly Reilly) wasted no time in ordering Summer (Piper Perabo), who had engaged in an entanglement with John, to leave Montana permanently. However, Summer’s character failed to resonate with the audience enough to warrant concern over her fate. While Beth’s rage against this peripheral character showcased her fierce spirit, it would have been more satisfying to see her focus on more significant adversaries, such as Jamie, particularly with only six episodes remaining in the series.
13 Walker Wandered Off to Uncharted Territories (With Texas in Mind)
His Dedication to John Deserved a More Definitive Closure
Walker (Ryan Bingham), having faced branding and loyalty pressures to the Yellowstone, ultimately left upon the sale of the ranch, merely hinting at a potential future in Texas alongside his girlfriend, Laramie (Hassie Harrison). While their reunion offered some warmth, the concluding ambiguity surrounding Walker’s path was disappointing, given the loyalty he exhibited throughout the series. This character warranted a clearer trajectory following years of dedication to the Duttons.
12 John Dutton III Was Murdered
A Compelling Exit Story That Lacked Sufficient Spotlight
The revelation of John Dutton’s death should have served as a pivotal narrative force throughout the final episodes, yet was marginalized in favor of lesser plots, such as Colby’s tragic fate. This disservice rendered the aftermath of John’s death hurried and disconnected; for instance, during the significant moments surrounding Colby’s demise, Beth’s actions regarding Jamie seemed disjointed from the overarching story.
11 Teeter Accepted Employment Under Travis
What Should Have Been a Joyous Conclusion Turned into a Toxic Work Environment
If not for Colby’s untimely death, Teeter’s narrative could have concluded with the happiness she rightfully deserved. The acknowledgment of their feelings should have led to a more fulfilling resolution. Instead, she relocated to Texas under the abrasive Travis, whose demeaning comments about her accent proved increasingly insulting. This scenario offered a bleak contrast to the romantic endings of other characters and felt like a disservice to Teeter’s growth.
10 Monica and Tate Found Happiness
Though Their Contentment Was Joyful, Their Arc Remained Underdeveloped
While Monica and Tate’s satisfactory conclusion was heartwarming, it lacked depth as their characters received minimal narrative focus during the season. Monica’s role had largely devolved into a supportive one, merely reacting to Kayce’s motivations. For Tate, critical moments should have been woven into a more elaborate storyline, thus lending greater significance to their ultimate happiness.
9 Sarah Atwood Fell Victim to Silence
An Intriguing Plotline That Quickly Lost Momentum
Sarah Atwood’s (Dawn Olivieri) demise introduced a shocking plot twist yet was swiftly overshadowed by the less impactful events that followed. Her manipulation and scheming made her fatal exit lack the gravitas it deserved, thus failing to solidify her legacy as a formidable antagonist.
8 Ryan Found Love Again with Abby
A Heartwarming Conclusion for a Largely Minor Character
Ryan (Ian Bohen) experienced a delightful conclusion, deciding to turn away from the cowboy life to join Abby (Lainey Wilson) during her band’s tour. This progression tied up their romantic storyline in a fulfilling manner, providing Ryan with a heartfelt second chance.
7 Senator Perry Attended John’s Funeral
Beth Finally Reconciled with Perry
In a surprising gesture, Beth extended an invitation to former governor and current senator Lynette Perry (Wendy Moniz) to attend John’s funeral, signifying a moment of peace between them. This request not only highlighted Beth’s evolving perspective but also acknowledged Perry’s complex role in John’s life.
6 Lloyd Chose to Step Back from Cowboy Life
The Ideal Resolution for John’s Most Loyal Associate
Lloyd (Forrie J Smith), revered as a cornerstone of the series, showcased an ideal blend of loyalty and wisdom throughout his time. His decision to retire from cowboy life, in tribute to his unwavering dedication to John, reflects the culmination of an enviable arc dedicated to servitude and respect, marking the perfect exit for a beloved character.
5 Jamie Was Slain and Disposed Of
His Fate Was Inevitable
Jamie’s (Wes Bentley) storyline concluded as expected, where the culmination of his betrayals ultimately led to a tragic demise, culminating in a decisive end without ambiguity.
4 Carter Was Welcomed into Beth and Rip’s Family
He Was Included in Their New Chapter
Carter’s journey from a lonely boy to being embraced as family marked an emotional evolution for Beth, who finally recognized him as her son figure. Following Colby’s unfortunate death, Beth reassured Carter and later took him along to Dillon, highlighting their newfound bond.
3 Beth and Rip Relocated to Dillon
Establishing Their Own Sanctuary
Beth and Rip’s transition to Dillon, away from the pressures of the ranch, facilitated an ideal setting for a spinoff narrative. Their new life embodies freedom and tranquility, allowing them to curate a legacy outside of John’s immediate conflicts and threats.
2 Chief Rainwater, Mo, and the Indigenous Community Reclaimed Their Land
A Fulfillment of an Age-Old Prophecy
In a concluding twist, Chief Rainwater’s ambitions materialized when he acquired the Indigenous lands for a nominal fee, symbolizing the reclamation journey that echoed sentiments from as far back as 1883. This resolution also honored the Dutton legacy as Mo actively preserved the resting place of John and his kin, signifying a newfound harmony.
1 Kayce Achieved Liberation
The Youngest Dutton Found His True Path
Kayce (Luke Grimes) experienced the brightest outcome of all, as he liberated himself by selling the ranch to Chief Rainwater. Overwhelmed with emotion, his tears of joy reflected decisiveness freeing him from his family’s complex legacy. Additionally, the sequence of shared visions among Kayce, Monica, and Mo highlighted Kayce’s newfound path, illustrating a resolution of conflict between his Dutton birthright and loyalty to Indigenous values.
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