Yellowstone's Ending Will Be a Disaster of Game of Thrones' Proportions
Six episodes are not enough to conclude such an epic story.
Taylor Sheridan's flagship series, Yellowstone, remains one of the best dramas. For five years, we've followed the story of the Dutton family and their battle for the ranch, which essentially serves as the show's main character.
Throughout these five years, none of us expected that the show might conclude on such an unsatisfactory note, potentially rivalling the disappointment many felt with the final season of Game of Thrones. A conflict between Sheridan and Kevin Costner will make the second half of Season 5 the final chapter of the Dutton family saga.
Costner has decided to focus on his own project, a series of Western feature films. As a result, the actor requested a reduction in his time on Yellowstone, compelling Sheridan to end the series sooner than planned.
The creators had intended to wrap up the story with a full Season 6, but now we'll only get six concluding episodes. While Sheridan told The Hollywood Reporter that the finale's outline was crafted during the original script's development (as Yellowstone was initially planned as a feature-length movie), the potential execution of this ending is causing fans significant anxiety.
Given the show's vast and diverse cast, a mere six episodes seem hardly sufficient to properly wrap up each character's narrative. As gifted as Sheridan and his team might be, the conclusion will likely feel too rushed.
It's odd that Costner's decision played such a pivotal role in the decision to end the show ahead of schedule. Over the last season and a half, John's significance in the story has waned, with more emphasis placed on his children. Fans have grown more intrigued by the destinies of Jamie, Beth, Rip, Casey, and Monica. However, the narrative focus is ultimately Sheridan's decision.
So, how might John's story end? It's improbable that John will face a tragic ending, especially since Sheridan himself mentioned he doesn't indulge in cheap cliffhangers. Furthermore, John has evaded death on numerous occasions, including battles with cancer, gunshot wounds, and confrontations with Beth's fiery temper. But whether he survives or finds himself incarcerated, it's dubious that viewers will get a real sense of satisfaction and closure.
To make matters worse, the mastermind behind the show seems to have shifted his attention to a spin-off sequel starring Matthew McConaughey, which, it appears, won't include any of the original characters. Thus, Season 5, Part 2, will really be the final chapter in the Dutton family's tale.
As for the release of these concluding episodes, they likely won't air until the end of 2023.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter.