Yellowstone’s Plot Holes Are Hard to Ignore

At its best, Yellowstone captivates with expertly crafted neo-Western storytelling. Yet, rewatching the series highlights glaring plot holes that threaten its credibility. From Dan Jenkins’ mysterious resurrection to the unexplained unexploded bomb on the Beck brothers’ plane, continuity errors are frequent. Jamie Dutton’s murder of reporter Sarah Nguyen is conveniently ruled a kayaking accident, while Rip Wheeler repeatedly drives across state lines without leaving a trace. Even dinosaur bones buried on the ranch seem to vanish from memory.

The Duttons Should Be Behind Bars

Kevin Costner once joked that the Dutton family “should all be in prison,” and it’s hard to argue with that after a closer look. John Dutton, Rip Wheeler, Jamie, Kayce, and Beth commit dozens of murders, manipulate local law enforcement, and engage in shady financial dealings. Their violent enforcement of ranch rule, particularly at the notorious “Train Station,” underscores just how lawless the family truly is.

Rip Wheeler’s Extreme Violence

Rip Wheeler, John Dutton’s enforcer and eventual husband to Beth, is responsible for some of the series’ darkest moments. From lynching Dan Jenkins to unleashing a rattlesnake on Roarke Morris, Rip’s brutality is unmatched. While his loyalty and affection for Beth provide some context, the sheer scale of his violence can be overwhelming.

Underused Characters and Lost Potential

Some of Yellowstone’s most interesting characters disappear or are underdeveloped in later seasons. Monica Long Dutton’s storyline, for example, grinds to a halt after season 2. Her work as a teacher and independent character fades entirely. Similarly, the family’s live-in chef, Gator, vanishes from key events, including John Dutton’s funeral, leaving narrative gaps and missed opportunities for deeper storytelling.

Problematic Portrayal of Women

Yellowstone features strong female characters, but the series often mishandles them. Monica is frequently objectified or reduced to childbearing roles. Beth Dutton experiences both hyper-violence and situations designed to showcase male dominance, like forcing a jewelry store proprietor to strip. Such moments reveal a troubling pattern of misogyny across the series.

Native American Representation Falls Short

While Kayce Dutton occasionally demonstrates sympathy toward Native Americans, most of the Dutton family disregards their rights. John Dutton’s initial gun battle in season 1 and ongoing obsession with retaining ranch land, even when promised to the Broken Rock tribe, reflects a largely antagonistic stance. Kayce occasionally intervenes, but only out of necessity, leaving the broader family complicit in systemic injustice.

John Dutton’s Death Changes the Show

Kevin Costner’s departure mid-season 5 marks a turning point. The series loses momentum without its patriarch. Beth and Jamie’s climactic showdown provides a dramatic finale, but the absence of John Dutton diminishes the series’ gravitas. Guest appearances, like Bella Hadid’s cameo, feel more like writer indulgences than plot necessity.

John Dutton: Yellowstone’s True Villain

Despite numerous antagonists, John Dutton is arguably the series’ main villain. His obsession with the unprofitable ranch drives murder, corruption, and tragedy. Victims outnumber those who oppose him, and his actions perpetuate injustice against Native Americans while dragging his family into cycles of violence and revenge.

A Series of Contrasts

Yellowstone remains a landmark Western drama, with breathtaking landscapes and moments of emotional brilliance. Yet, rewatching the show exposes narrative inconsistencies, morally ambiguous characters, and troubling portrayals that complicate its legacy. The Duttons’ lawlessness, Rip’s cruelty, and John’s obsession leave audiences both captivated and critical.