Note: This article contains major spoilers for the season 2 finale of 1923! In a recent interview with ScreenRant, actors Brandon Sklenar and Julia Schlaepfer reflected on the emotional highs and lows of the heartbreaking finale of 1923, crafted by Taylor Sheridan. This touching episode provided moments of joy for Spencer and Alex, even as it foreshowed their painful separation.
In a tragic twist, Alex’s struggle with severe frostbite forced her into a devastating decision. Facing the possibility of debilitating surgery and the inability to care for their son, baby John, she chose to sacrifice her own life. This shocking turn of events left viewers grappling with the contrast between the episode’s romantic beginning and its sorrowful conclusion—though fantasy offered solace as the couple would reunite in the afterlife.
Alex & Spencer’s Reunion: A Filming Challenge Described
“They Didn’t Know How Long They Wanted That Run To Be”
The tension-filled season 2 finale opened with emotional fireworks as it reunited Alex and Spencer after a six-episode separation. The striking visual of Spencer leaping from a moving train to embrace his beloved encapsulated an epic romantic scene, despite the backdrop of Alex’s serious medical condition due to frostbite. During their interview, both actors expressed their excitement about filming the pivotal reunion.
Sklenar shared insights about the intricacies of the train sequence, revealing that the entire scene was shot on a sound stage in Austin. “We had sections of train set up and filmed different takes where I’d run through sections, jump off platforms, and sprint through fake snow,” he explained, underscoring the repetitive nature of the task which they repeated “many, many times.”
Schlaepfer playfully recounted how their roles demanded intense physicality, as she embraced the challenge of portraying a character on the brink of death from frostbite while battling the sweltering Texas heat. “I was supposed to look deathly cold while sweating profusely. It was a workout just to film those scenes,” she said. Together, the leads felt like athletes training for a demanding event, having to run extensive distances to fulfill their characters’ dramatic reunion.
Harrison Ford Elevates Julia Schlaepfer’s Experience in a Emotional Scene
“It’ll Be The Highlight Of My Career, Probably Forever”
In another part of their conversation, Schlaepfer reflected on memorable moments with Harrison Ford. She expressed excitement about the rapport between her character and Jacob Dutton, portrayed by Ford. “It was heartbreaking that Alex didn’t meet Cara; they would have connected beautifully. Harrison, though, created such a protective and nurturing atmosphere on set,” she shared.
Julia Schlaepfer: “The first scene I filmed with him was my birthing scene. I was so exhausted and traumatized from the season, and he just wanted to ensure I was okay. He took care of me and embodied the fatherly nature of Jacob Dutton. The playful connection we had was a joy to witness, confirming that Alex would have easily fit into the Dutton family.”
The Implications of Alex’s Death for Spencer’s Journey Moving Forward
“She Can Haunt Spencer In The Most Beautiful Way”
Discussing the depth of Spencer’s anguish at losing Alex, Sklenar opened up about the dramatic impact of the scene where he had to confront the reality of her sacrifice for their child. “Filming that moment was profoundly emotional. The weight of knowing that your partner made the ultimate sacrifice is heartbreaking. It’s all about love, unspoken yet felt, and having to cope with that loss for the rest of your life is devastating,” he described.
Brandon Sklenar: “He had fought so hard for their love, only for it to vanish within moments. The subsequent scene in heaven served as the ultimate closure, where they could reunite after decades of separation. Remarkably, he lived long enough to see her again, which is a testament to the beauty and complexity of their love story.”
As discussions of future series, particularly 1944, arise, both actors expressed enthusiasm for continued storytelling within the universe of Yellowstone. Sklenar humorously noted his wish for Schlaepfer to return as a ghostly presence. “Imagine her haunting Spencer in the most delightful and humorous manner,” he joked.
Brandon Sklenar: “If 1944 happens, I’d jump at the chance to explore Spencer’s journey further. He might be in his fifties, but I’m ready! It’s a world filled with adventure.”
- Julia Schlaepfer (Alexandra Dutton)
- Jennifer Carpenter (Deputy Marshall Mamie Fossett)
- Madison Elise Rogers (Lindy)
- Brian Geraghty (Zane Davis)
- Aminah Nieves (Teonna Rainwater)
- Sebastian Roché (Father Renaud)
- Brian Konowal (Clyde)
- Darren Mann (Jack Dutton) & Michelle Randolph (Liz Strafford)
All episodes of 1923 season 2 are now available for streaming on Paramount+.