Why Yellowstone Falls Short: A Critical Analysis of TV's Western Drama
In the world of television drama, few shows have garnered as much attention and debate as Yellowstone. This critically acclaimed series, set against the backdrop of America's rugged western landscape, has developed a passionate following while simultaneously generating significant criticism. The show's melodramatic elements, character development, and storytelling techniques have become points of contention among viewers who question whether Yellowstone truly delivers on its perceived aspirations.
Despite creator Taylor Sheridan's impressive filmography and undeniable talent, Yellowstone presents a curious case study in television. The show's characters, particularly figures like Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler, have inspired both devoted admiration and fierce criticism. Their actions and personalities, which drive much of the narrative, frequently challenge viewers' expectations about what constitutes compelling character development in prestige television.
Key Takeaways
Yellowstone occupies a unique position between prestige drama and soap opera, creating tension in how viewers perceive its quality.
Character development throughout the series often relies on melodramatic confrontations rather than subtle strategic intelligence.
The show's approach to power dynamics and business conflicts frequently sacrifices realism for dramatic effect.
Motivation for the Critique
This critique emerges from a profound sense of disappointment with the television series Yellowstone, despite initial high expectations. The creator had actively searched for critical analysis that resonated with their personal viewing experience but found nothing satisfying, ultimately compelling them to develop their own critique as a form of "therapy." Their perspective resembles the character Elaine from Seinfeld, who famously disliked The English Patient while surrounded by admirers.
It's important to note that this isn't criticism for criticism's sake. The critic acknowledges Taylor Sheridan's immense talent and previous work, suggesting the issue stems from Sheridan stretching himself too thin across multiple projects. The concern isn't about Yellowstone's sometimes campy or contrived nature—the critic can appreciate shows with "goofy identity" like Cobra Kai or Outer Banks. Rather, the frustration centers on Yellowstone's apparent self-perception as something more substantial than a "soap opera with cowboys."
The primary complaint focuses on character development and writing, particularly with main characters like Beth Dutton. The critic finds Beth's widespread popularity puzzling given her portrayal as:
Obnoxious and abrasive
Manipulative and untrustworthy
Presented as a genius businesswoman without convincing evidence
This disconnect between Beth's supposed business acumen and her actual behavior forms a key criticism point. The critique compares her unfavorably to strategic characters from superior shows like Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blinders, who demonstrates actual restraint and calculation when facing adversaries.
Similar concerns extend to Rip's character, portrayed as John Dutton's obedient enforcer who lacks autonomy and commits questionable acts, including murder, without sufficient moral justification.
Preconceived Notions and Disappointment
Expectations Shaped by Past Creative Works
Many viewers approach Yellowstone with high expectations based on Taylor Sheridan's impressive filmography. His previous work demonstrates undeniable talent and storytelling ability, creating anticipation for similar quality in this television series. Unfortunately, the show appears to suffer from Sheridan stretching himself too thin by simultaneously writing and producing multiple episodes across various series and spin-offs. This overextension potentially explains the disparity between his acclaimed film work and the execution of Yellowstone, leaving fans who appreciated his earlier projects particularly disappointed.
Yellowstone in the Television Landscape
Yellowstone occupies an unusual position in contemporary television. Unlike shows such as Cobra Kai or Outer Banks that embrace their campy identities, Yellowstone seems unwilling to acknowledge its soap opera elements. The disconnect between what Yellowstone aspires to be and what it actually delivers creates a fundamental problem for discerning viewers.
When compared to character-driven shows like Peaky Blinders, Breaking Bad, or Justified, Yellowstone's character development falls noticeably short. For example, Beth Dutton's characterization as a business genius contradicts her consistently self-defeating behavior. Her aggressive approach—threatening potential allies and alienating everyone she encounters—stands in stark contrast to the calculated restraint demonstrated by Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders.
Similarly, Rip Wheeler's portrayal as a rugged badass lacks the depth and moral complexity found in comparable characters from prestige television. His unquestioning loyalty to John Dutton manifests primarily through violence that often targets individuals who don't deserve such treatment, including a medical examiner whose only crime was inconveniencing the Dutton family.
While popular with audiences, Yellowstone's characters simply don't hold up when measured against the rich characterizations found in shows like:
Peaky Blinders - Strategic character development
Better Call Saul - Nuanced moral complexity
Ozark - Believable high-stakes negotiations
Game of Thrones - Multi-dimensional power players
This comparison reveals Yellowstone's limitations in crafting consistent, believable characters worthy of their dramatic setting.
Examining Yellowstone's True Character
Genre Identity Issues
Yellowstone presents itself with conflicting identities that create a fundamental disconnect for viewers. The show embraces many soap opera elements—dramatic confrontations, extreme character behaviors, and heightened conflicts—while simultaneously positioning itself as a prestige drama. This dual identity creates a jarring experience, particularly when compared to programs that fully commit to their genre. Shows like Cobra Kai and Outer Banks embrace their campy elements wholeheartedly, making them more cohesive viewing experiences.
The issue isn't that Yellowstone contains outlandish elements or dramatic tensions. Rather, the problem stems from the apparent reluctance to acknowledge its soap opera nature. This disconnect extends to how the show is marketed and perceived by its audience, creating a mismatch between content and presentation.
Comparing Character Development with Similar Shows
Beth Dutton's character exemplifies the show's writing weaknesses when compared to similar archetypes in better-executed series. Despite being positioned as a brilliant strategist and businesswoman, Beth's constant aggression and unprofessional behavior contradict this characterization. Her approach—threatening adversaries, using crude language in professional settings, and betraying allies for convenience—would realistically undermine any corporate career.
Character Comparison: Beth vs. Strategic Characters in Other Series
Character Trait Beth Dutton (Yellowstone) Tommy Shelby (Peaky Blinders) Tactical approach Overt threats, confrontation Strategic patience, calculated responses Professional demeanor Belligerent, unpredictable Composed, revealing strength selectively Treatment of adversaries Immediate hostility Strategic deference when necessary
Similarly, Rip Wheeler's characterization falls short when examined alongside comparable figures in prestige television. His lack of autonomy and unquestioning loyalty to John Dutton's commands—especially regarding violence—positions him more as a one-dimensional enforcer than a fully realized character. His actions, including intimidating and murdering a medical examiner to cover up another killing, illustrate how the show uses violence without the moral complexity found in series like Breaking Bad or Justified.
These character issues highlight a broader problem: Yellowstone attempts to position itself among sophisticated prestige dramas while employing writing techniques more aligned with traditional soap operas. The contrast becomes particularly stark when comparing its character development to shows that more successfully blend western settings with complex moral narratives.
Character Critique: Beth Dutton
Misguided Fan Perception
Beth Dutton stands as one of Yellowstone's most controversial characters. Despite her popularity among viewers, there are significant flaws in her characterization that deserve scrutiny. Many fans place her on lists of greatest female characters in television, but this adoration seems misplaced when examining her actual behavior and development throughout the series.
The character displays consistently toxic traits—abrasive interactions, manipulative tactics, and needlessly cruel behavior toward both family members and colleagues. While her backstory includes trauma from maternal mistreatment and Jamie's betrayal, these elements don't justify or adequately explain her perpetually destructive approach to relationships.
Behavioral Inconsistencies
Beth's supposed business acumen represents one of the show's most glaring narrative contradictions. The series positions her as a brilliant strategist, yet her professional conduct contradicts this portrayal at every turn:
Unprofessional conduct: Excessive profanity in business settings
Poor negotiation tactics: Relies on threats rather than strategy
Lack of trust: Repeatedly betrays allies and partners
No consequences: Faces few repercussions for hostile behavior
Her threatening approach to business negotiations ("I'm going to hang your diploma above my toilet") lacks credibility. In realistic corporate environments, her reputation for betrayal and volatility would make her unemployable, not sought after by competitors.
Beth's characterization falls apart when compared to well-written strategic characters like Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blinders. Where Tommy demonstrates restraint, patience, and tactical thinking even when insulted to his face, Beth consistently acts impulsively and emotionally—traits that contradict her supposed strategic brilliance.
Comparisons with Superior Character Writing
When measured against genuinely well-crafted female characters in television, Beth's writing appears superficial and contrived. Unlike complex characters such as:
Kim Wexler (Better Call Saul)
Cersei Lannister (Game of Thrones)
Ava Crowder (Justified)
Lady Elena (Various adaptations)
Beth lacks the narrative consistency and depth that makes these characters compelling. Her "badass" moments feel manufactured rather than earned through consistent character development.
The writing relies on telling viewers Beth is brilliant while showing behavior that contradicts this claim. This disconnect between stated character traits and depicted behavior represents a fundamental weakness in her characterization that undermines the credibility of the entire show.
Character Analysis: Rip
Rip Wheeler serves as an intriguing study in blind loyalty within the Yellowstone universe. Despite being positioned as a formidable enforcer, his character lacks true autonomy, functioning primarily as John Dutton's devoted lieutenant who executes orders without question.
His willingness to commit violence on command reveals the troubling foundation of his character. Rip performs murders and intimidation tactics whenever instructed, rarely questioning the morality or necessity of these actions. This unquestioning obedience undermines any claim to genuine strength of character.
The relationship dynamics between Rip and Beth further expose his limitations. While portrayed as a passionate romance, their interactions often feature Beth treating him poorly, yet he remains steadfastly devoted despite this treatment. This dynamic doesn't demonstrate healthy partnership but rather reinforces his role as a subordinate.
One particularly telling scene involves Rip intimidating and ultimately murdering a medical examiner solely to cover up another Dutton-orchestrated killing. The victim's only real "crime" was being in a position to reveal the truth about Casey's actions. This exemplifies how Rip's character serves primarily as a tool for the Dutton family's preservation.
Compared to complex antiheroes in superior television dramas, Rip lacks the moral complexity and inner conflict that would make him truly compelling. Unlike characters who struggle with their violent tendencies or question their allegiances, Rip demonstrates little introspection about his role as an enforcer.
His character fails to develop meaningful independence or show growth beyond his function as John's loyal soldier. While presented as a fearsome force, his true character is defined more by subservience than strength.
Illustration Through Scene Dissection
Television characters often reveal their true nature through pivotal scenes. Beth Dutton, portrayed as a business mastermind in Yellowstone, demonstrates behaviors that contradict this characterization. Her approach to business interactions typically involves vulgar language, unnecessary threats, and burning professional bridges—tactics that would destroy careers in realistic settings.
Consider Beth's common negotiation strategy: she enters meetings with immediate hostility, making statements like "I'm going to hang your diploma above my toilet" to educated professionals. This behavior rarely demonstrates strategic thinking but rather emotional impulsivity.
A stark contrast appears when examining Tommy Shelby's approach in Peaky Blinders. When confronted by Billy Kimber, a powerful rival, Tommy restrains himself despite severe insults. He recognizes the tactical advantage of patience, postponing retaliation until he secures proper leverage—demonstrating true strategic intelligence.
Beth's character fails to show similar restraint. Unlike calculated characters from superior shows like Breaking Bad's Gus Fring or Better Call Saul's Lalo Salamanca, Beth appears incapable of concealing her emotions to achieve long-term goals.
Rip Wheeler similarly suffers from questionable character development. Despite being portrayed as a formidable figure, his character lacks independence. He functions primarily as John Dutton's enforcer, carrying out orders without moral consideration.
One telling scene features Rip intimidating and ultimately killing a medical examiner to cover up an earlier Dutton family crime. This murder lacks justification beyond convenience—the victim's only offense being an obstacle to the family's interests.
These scenes illustrate fundamental flaws in Yellowstone's character development. The show positions these behaviors as admirable or strategic when they actually demonstrate poor judgment and morally questionable decision-making.
