The much-anticipated Season 5 finale of Yellowstone left fans divided, with many expressing frustration over the series’ conclusion. Despite a few defenders, the episode’s rushed pacing and predictable twists fueled strong criticism.
The Emotional Farewell to John Dutton: A Turning Point
The Season 5 finale marked the end of an era with the death of the Dutton patriarch, John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner. The funeral scene—centered on an emotional Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly)—was intended to tug at viewers’ heartstrings. As Beth leaned over her father’s casket, she vowed to avenge his death, setting the tone for the episode.
This emotional farewell could have been a powerful moment, but for many viewers, it felt rushed and anticlimactic. Fans took to social media to vent their disappointment, with one user stating, “This was supposed to be epic, but instead, it just fell flat. What a waste of an incredible character like John Dutton.”
Beth and Jamie’s Violent Showdown: Over the Top or Justified?
The long-standing sibling rivalry between Beth and Jamie Dutton (Wes Bentley) came to a bloody climax in the finale. A heated confrontation escalated into violence, with Beth stabbing Jamie in a shocking scene. The resolution saw Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) stepping in to dispose of Jamie’s body at the infamous “train station.”
For some fans, this moment brought long-awaited justice. Others criticized it for being overly predictable and lacking emotional weight. “We all knew it would come to this,” remarked one disappointed viewer. “The writing was lazy and didn’t deliver the punch it should have.”
Kayce’s Land Deal: A Bittersweet Resolution
Meanwhile, Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) played a quieter role in the finale. His decision to sell a large portion of the family’s land to Thomas Rainwater (Gil Birmingham) for $1.25 per acre was seen as pragmatic, yet melancholic. Kayce’s one condition—that the land remains untouched—highlighted his connection to the family’s legacy.
While some viewers praised this subplot as a fitting end to Kayce’s journey, others felt it lacked emotional impact. “This could have been a beautiful storyline, but it was barely given any attention,” wrote a fan on Twitter.
Why Fans Were So Frustrated with the Finale
The primary criticism of Yellowstone’s Season 5 finale stems from its pacing and rushed execution. Many viewers felt that the series failed to give adequate closure to its complex characters and storylines. Instead, it leaned heavily on violence and predictable outcomes.
A common complaint was the lack of surprises. “Everything that happened was exactly what we saw coming,” said one viewer. “Where were the twists? The emotional depth? It felt like the writers just gave up.”
Social media was flooded with comments echoing similar sentiments:
- “This season felt rushed and hollow. The show deserved better.”
- “Terrible ending. The pacing was all over the place, and the writing felt sloppy.”
- “Yellowstone started off as one of the greatest shows on TV. What happened?”
Some Fans Still Defended the Finale
Despite the backlash, a small group of viewers praised the finale for tying up loose ends. For these fans, the focus on the Duttons’ family struggles, land legacy, and Beth’s determination made for a satisfying close. One admirer wrote, “The ending was emotional and raw. Beth was the heart of this finale, and she delivered beautifully.”
Others appreciated the groundwork laid for potential spin-offs, noting that the finale leaves room for new stories. “It’s not over yet,” one fan optimistically shared. “The next chapter will bring fresh perspectives.”
The Possibility of a Yellowstone Spin-Off
Amidst the frustration surrounding the finale, news of a possible spin-off series offered a glimmer of hope for fans. Reports suggest that Kelly Reilly (Beth) and Cole Hauser (Rip) are expected to headline a new project set in the Yellowstone universe.
Creator Taylor Sheridan has hinted that the storyline could shift in tone and direction, focusing on a fresh narrative while preserving the essence of the Duttons’ saga. For fans who felt the finale fell short, this spin-off presents an opportunity to right the show’s wrongs.
“If Taylor Sheridan writes it, I’ll watch it,” said a loyal fan, reflecting the cautious optimism shared by many viewers.
Why Did Yellowstone Lose Its Spark?
The backlash to the finale also reignited discussions about Yellowstone’s decline in quality over the last few seasons. Many fans pointed to inconsistent writing, filler episodes, and the absence of Kevin Costner as contributing factors.
Kevin Costner’s rumored departure earlier in the season added fuel to the fire. Viewers speculated that his absence impacted the show’s focus and emotional weight. “Without John Dutton, Yellowstone just isn’t the same,” lamented a fan.
Some also criticized unnecessary plotlines and casting choices—most notably, Bella Hadid’s unexpected cameo in Episode 13. Fans were quick to label her appearance as a distraction, further detracting from the show’s core themes.
Final Thoughts: A Mixed Farewell to Yellowstone
The Season 5 finale of Yellowstone was a polarizing conclusion to a show that once captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling and gritty drama. For many fans, the rushed pacing, predictable plot twists, and lack of emotional depth made it a disappointing ending to an otherwise iconic series.
However, for others, the finale offered a bittersweet goodbye to beloved characters, with glimmers of hope for future spin-offs. Whether you loved it, hated it, or fell somewhere in between, there’s no denying that Yellowstone has left a lasting mark on television history.
As Taylor Sheridan sets his sights on new projects, fans can only hope that the next chapter in the Yellowstone universe will recapture the magic that made the show so unforgettable. For now, the Duttons’ story has reached its end—at least, for this chapter.
