Shocking Twist in Yellowstone Season 5: Will John Dutton Really Face an Untimely End?

Summary

Kevin Costner's contract for Yellowstone includes a "moral death" clause, which prevents his character from being subjected to an embarrassing or shameful death.

John Dutton's potential sources of humiliation leading to his demise could arise from ineptitude, lack of intellect, personal connections, or mishandling of health matters.

Notwithstanding the moral guidelines, Yellowstone can devise appropriate and honorable ways to bring about John Dutton's demise, such as through a noble sacrifice or a serene and dignified departure.

With the continuous delays of Yellowstone season 5, part 2 due to strikes from WGA and SAG-AFTRA, the fate of John Dutton's character in the show's final installment remains uncertain. Speculations now extend to the specific manner in which the series' patriarch may meet his demise. Despite Kevin Costner's portrayal of John Dutton for five seasons, his involvement in the series' concluding part remains unclear, leading to theories of his character being killed off. However, a recent revelation in Costner's Yellowstone contract adds an interesting twist to this theory.

Journalist Matt Belloni, in his Puck newsletter, shed light on Kevin Costner's recent conflicts with the Yellowstone team. He disclosed that the actor's contract includes a provision called a "moral death" clause, which prevents the creators from subjecting Costner's character to a death that would be deemed embarrassing or shameful. Belloni emphasized that such clauses are considered uncommon. As a result, Costner's moral death provision significantly limits the possibilities for the conclusion of Yellowstone without his presence.

What Would An "Embarrassing" Death Be For John Dutton In Yellowstone?

When it comes to a death that would violate Kevin Costner's contract and be deemed "embarrassing," the possibilities are endless. Since the term "embarrassing" is subjective, a seemingly innocuous death could still upset the actor and breach the contract. However, there are certain scenarios that the creators of Yellowstone could explore, which would undoubtedly be considered shameful by both Costner and the audience. These scenarios would likely involve deaths that are easily avoidable or can only occur due to Dutton's lack of ability or intelligence, such as him tripping on a pebble and losing his life.

Deaths that are more likely to embarrass John Dutton, and subsequently Kevin Costner, are those that have personal connections to the character. For instance, it would not reflect well if John Dutton died after being trampled by a horse, considering his lifelong experience handling animals. Similarly, if Dutton were defeated in a fight, it could be considered embarrassing due to the character's typically portrayed strength. The same applies to mishandling an illness. Ultimately, the best approach to avoid violating the moral death clause is for John Dutton to exit the series in a spectacular and heroic manner.

Yellowstone Can Still Easily Kill Off John Dutton In Yellowstone Season 5

Yellowstone has the ability to kill off John Dutton, despite the moral death provision. The show has guidelines that can be followed without much difficulty. In order to maintain the integrity of his character, John Dutton's death should be fitting and depict him as a hero, embodying the spirit of a cowboy, while being shown respect. One possible scenario could involve Dutton engaging in a fight, emerging as the victor but sustaining fatal injuries. Alternatively, he could make a sacrifice to save a family member.

Alternatively, if a dramatic death doesn't align with the desired tone, the Yellowstone team could opt for a quiet and dignified ending for John Dutton. Given his age, it wouldn't be unrealistic for him to fall ill and pass away, offering a satisfactory conclusion. Despite the drawbacks of illness, the show could portray Dutton as physically strong until his final moments. Another option would be for Dutton to pass away off-screen, allowing him to be remembered for his vibrant life rather than the act of dying.

Should Yellowstone Season 5 Kill Off John Dutton?

If Kevin Costner does not return for the second part of Yellowstone season 5, killing off John Dutton could be the optimal choice for the series. While character deaths can be embarrassing at times, they often carry a sense of honor, and having John Dutton killed would likely be a more favorable option than explaining his absence through trips or convenient circumstances. In essence, if Costner chooses to come back to Yellowstone, his character's death may not be essential. However, if the actor decides to leave the series, a fictional death for his character would be the ideal resolution to his absence.