The Unforgettable Near-Death Encounters of Monica Dutton in Yellowstone

Summary

Monica Dutton, a major character in Yellowstone, has faced numerous brushes with death throughout the series.

In Season 1, she endures a severe brain injury but manages to make a recovery, despite the obstacles her marriage to Kayce Dutton encounters.

During Season 4, Monica becomes the victim of a home invasion, but her son Tate comes to her rescue. Subsequently, in Season 5, she survives a car accident that tragically leads to the loss of her unborn son, leaving her utterly devastated.

Taylor Sheridan's critically acclaimed neo-Western series, Yellowstone, has struck a chord with viewers for its compelling storyline and high-stakes drama. Among the characters, none have danced with death as frequently as Monica Dutton, portrayed by the talented Kelsey Asbille. From the very first episode, Monica, a Native American teacher-turned-professor, takes on the challenging role of being married to Kayce Dutton, played by Luke Grimes, the son of the series' central character and ranch owner, John Dutton, portrayed by the legendary Kevin Costner.

Set against the backdrop of the Dutton family ranch, the heart of the show, Yellowstone delves into the conflicts that arise within the family, on the neighboring Broken Rock Indian Reservation, and with opportunistic developers. Unafraid of eliminating major characters, the pilot episode witnessed the demise of Lee, the eldest of John Dutton's offspring, portrayed by Dave Annable. Additionally, with speculations of Costner's departure in season 5, it is heavily rumored that John Dutton's own fate will be sealed before the show's conclusion.

While all characters grapple with loss, death seems to follow Monica closely. Her brother Robert, played by Jeremiah Bitsui, and sister-in-law Samantha, portrayed by MorningStar Angeline, both succumbed to tragedy within the first few episodes. Monica herself has narrowly avoided death on numerous occasions, yet has managed to survive the perilous world of Yellowstone thus far.

Monica Suffers A Brain Injury In Season 1

In Yellowstone season 1,

Monica Is Attacked In A Home Invasion In Season 4

is struck by a severe blow to the head when she intervenes in a fight between two boys at the school where she works. While recovering at her residence, she suddenly loses consciousness and is quickly taken to the hospital. It is then revealed that she has suffered from an epidural hematoma.

Monica Is Attacked In A Home Invasion In Season 4

undergoes surgery and engages in physical therapy to initiate her healing process. However, during this journey, tensions arise in her marriage with Kayce as she perceives the Dutton family's way of life as perilous and a significant threat to both herself and their son, Tate (Brecken Merrill). The resilient Yellowstone couple manages to navigate through these challenges, but just like

Monica Is Attacked In A Home Invasion In Season 4

's journey to recovery, it is a gradual process.

In Yellowstone season 4, Monica finds herself in a dangerous situation once again. She and her son, Tate, are targeted by a masked intruder who violently attacks Monica. Just as the intruder is about to take her life, Tate reacts swiftly, grabbing a rifle and saving his mother by taking down the attacker. After the horrifying ordeal, Monica and Tate seek refuge in the family bunkhouse, where they remain hidden. Kayce, Monica's husband, rushes back to ensure their safety and offers reassurance that everything will be alright. However, it's evident that Tate is deeply affected by the traumatic experience.

Monica Is In A Car Accident In Season 5

Monica, pregnant with her second child with Kayce in Yellowstone season 5, faces a traumatic experience as she drives herself and her son Tate to the hospital while her husband is away. In her haste, Monica loses control on a dark country road and swerves to avoid an oncoming truck, colliding with a buffalo. Although Monica survives the crash, tragically, her unborn son does not, leaving her and her family devastated.

While these life-threatening encounters highlight Monica's resilience, it is frustrating that her character arc often revolves around suffering. It would be refreshing if the creator, Sheridan, allows Monica to have more agency and purpose beyond being a victim of death and violence. Hopefully, this change will manifest in the upcoming Yellowstone season 5 part 2.