Warning! SPOILERS For 1883, 1923, & Yellowstone
Unlike many series, Yellowstone—a hallmark of Taylor Sheridan’s neo-Western portfolio—doesn’t shy away from controversy. Viewers frequently engage in heated discussions surrounding its storylines and character arcs, especially regarding the oft-debated narrative surrounding the Dutton family. With both 1883 and 1923 garnering their share of criticism, it’s clear that the flagship series remains the center of contention.
The upcoming second part of Yellowstone season 5 has particularly ignited debates, especially surrounding Kevin Costner’s portrayal of John Dutton III and his subsequent exit from the series. With John Dutton’s removal, the closing chapters of the show have drawn mixed reactions from fans, some of whom believe that certain choices pushed the envelope too far. The spinoffs, such as the developments in 1923, have also been flagged as unsettling, with fans urging Sheridan to reconsider some of his more bizarre plotlines.
10 Elsa Dutton’s Death in 1883
Elsa Dutton Dies In 1883’s Finale
One of the most significant and controversial moments in the Yellowstone narrative is the tragic demise of Elsa Dutton, portrayed by Isabel May, who represents the Dutton family’s roots in the prequel, 1883. Her role as James and Margaret Dutton’s daughter offers insight into how the iconic Yellowstone Dutton Ranch came to be established, making her death a crucial turning point in the overall storyline.
Viewers were left reeling when Elsa’s death was graphically depicted in the series finale, occurring in a heart-wrenching moment as she perished in her father’s arms. This scene resonated deeply, even prompting emotional reactions from the cast during filming. While many fanatics hoped for a second season of 1883, the show stands as a complete narrative, with Elsa’s fate serving as a poignant marker for the franchise, despite the dissatisfaction it generated among segments of the audience.
9 Bella Hadid’s Controversial Cameo
Bella Hadid Appears In Yellowstone Season 5
Another point of contention arose with Bella Hadid’s cameo in Season 5, where she appeared alongside Travis Wheatley, portrayed by Taylor Sheridan. Her role sparked discussions, especially since she was depicted attempting to sway Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) regarding the attractiveness of Wheatley despite his controversial persona.
The inclusion of Hadid in the series raised eyebrows among fans, some accusing Sheridan of choosing to elevate his own character’s profile by associating him with a high-profile celebrity. Although there are justifications for her appearance—such as her connections to the rodeo scene—many felt her role was out of sync with the show’s premise.
8 Taylor Sheridan’s Involvement
Taylor Sheridan Appears Controversially In Yellowstone Season 5
Similarly, Sheridan himself has stirred controversy by making significant appearances as Travis Wheatley throughout the series, particularly in his expanded role in Season 5. His character’s storyline in the penultimate episode, where Beth has to confront Wheatley in Texas, felt unwarranted to some fans.
This detour into Wheatley’s personal life detracted from key plot developments, leading to mixed reviews about his character’s effectiveness. While some fans enjoyed the lighthearted moments Sheridan brought to the show, others felt his character overstepped the narrative boundaries established in previous seasons.
7 Donald & Lindy’s Relationship In 1923
Donald And Lindy Cohabit In 1923 Season 2
Within the prequel 1923, the dynamic between Donald Whitfield (Timothy Dalton) and Lindy (Madison Elise Rogers) has also drawn considerable scrutiny. Their evolving relationship, marked by complexity and darker tones, has raised questions about the show’s portrayal of such interactions.
In season 2, Donald’s connection with Lindy shows a troubling development, especially regarding their treatment of another character, Christy. Many fans have expressed discomfort with the story’s trajectory, finding it unnecessarily harsh and critical of the characters’ decisions.
6 John Dutton III’s Demise in Yellowstone Season 5
Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone Character Dies In Yellowstone Season 5
Arguably, one of the most significant losses in the series was that of John Dutton III, whose death in season 5 prompted mixed emotional responses from the audience. This turning point came shortly after Kevin Costner’s departure from the show, entwining the character’s narrative with real-world dynamics.
His tragic end marked a pivotal shift in the storyline, facilitating a deeper exploration of Kayce and Beth, as they took on more responsibilities in the absence of their father. However, the manner of John’s exit has been critiqued heavily, casting a shadow over the concluding season’s narrative arc.
5 Beth Dutton’s Conflict with Jamie
Beth Dutton’s Ongoing Hostility
While many fans appreciate Beth Dutton’s fiery spirit, her relentless disdain for her adopted brother, Jamie, has drawn criticism. Viewers often empathize with Jamie’s plight throughout his tumultuous childhood and the tumult of his actions against Beth.
Critics argue that Beth’s antagonism towards Jamie detracts from the overall familial themes presented in Yellowstone, leading some to find her behavior excessive. Nevertheless, Beth’s character remains a favorite amongst other viewers due to her fierce loyalty and determination, illustrating the complexity of her relationships within the storyline.
4 Period Inaccuracies in 1883
Dental Anomalies in 1883
While 1883 presents itself as an accurate historical dramatization, some viewers have noted discrepancies such as the characters’ remarkably straight and white teeth, which would be implausible for their 19th-century setting. This observation has been met with amusement and criticism in equal measure.
Although it may seem like a minor detail, it does underscore the importance of authenticity in period dramas. Ironically, the portrayal of the more rugged characters in 1923—with their gritty, historically accurate appearances—serves to highlight the incongruity in 1883.
3 Kayce’s Ranch Sale in Yellowstone’s Finale
Kayce Sells The Ranch To The Broken Rock Tribe
The conclusion of Yellowstone raised eyebrows when Kayce Dutton sold the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch to Thomas Rainwater and the Broken Rock Tribe. This decision, heavily critiqued by certain fans, seemed to contradict conventional Western narratives.
However, for some, this act symbolizes a remarkable reconciliation with Native American heritage, presenting an uplifting resolution as the Broken Rock Tribe reclaims their ancestral land, providing a significant and subversive ending to a genre often rooted in conflict.
2 Summer Higgins’ Conclusion
Summer’s Route in Seasons 4 and 5
Summer Higgins, played by Piper Perabo, first entered the plot as John Dutton’s love interest, who navigated complex family dynamics and values. However, her storyline concluded abruptly and controversially, particularly after John’s death.
Beth’s treatment of Summer following John’s demise left fans feeling unsettled, revealing a sudden turn in their relationship that many considered lackluster and unnecessarily harsh given the circumstances.
1 John Dutton & Rip’s Morality
The Violent Nature of the Duttons
John and Rip’s violent tendencies have sparked a dichotomy in audience responses, with their extreme methods of defending the ranch raising ethical questions. Critics argue that the normalization of murder and violence distorts the moral undertone of the series.
While the prequels 1883 and 1923 provide context surrounding the family’s defensive stance, it complicates perceptions of the Duttons and their legacy. The violent actions of John and Rip often overshadow the familial themes within Yellowstone, prompting viewers to challenge their admiration for these characters.