Evelyn Dutton (Gretchen Mol) left an intricate legacy in Yellowstone, and her death profoundly affected her daughter, Beth. The forthcoming second part of Yellowstone season 5 will finalize this segment of the Duttons’ narrative, but Taylor Sheridan’s neo-Western Yellowstone universe frequently revisits historical elements.
The prequel series 1883 and 1923 depict the challenges faced by earlier generations of the Dutton family, while the main series frequently employs flashbacks. These insights from history illustrate the evolution of the current Duttons.
This context is crucial for comprehending Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly), who is undoubtedly the most intricate character in Yellowstone. She possesses exceptional intelligence and unparalleled commercial acumen, and her dedication, especially towards her father John Dutton (Kevin Costner) and husband Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser), is unmatched.
Nonetheless, Beth is highly unpredictable, exhibiting infantile, violent outbursts, and her irregular conduct has frequently resulted in complications. Every facet of Beth’s character, ranging from the financial predator to the affectionate daughter to the malevolent tormentor, is shaped by her late mother, Evelyn Dutton.
Evelyn Died Due to a Horse Fall Accident in Yellowstone
Evelyn Dutton’s death appears in season 1, episode 3 of Yellowstone, titled “No Good Horses”. In a flashback to March 30, 1997, Evelyn has taken little Beth (Kylie Rogers) and Kayce (Rhy Alterman) horseback riding and is clearly irritated by Beth’s nervousness on her horse.
A terrified Beth frightens her horse, which subsequently startles Evelyn’s horse. Evelyn is tossed, and her horse collapses upon her, resulting in her fatality.
However, Evelyn does not yield immediately, and instead of dispatching Kayce, the more seasoned rider, for assistance, she compels Beth to go because “She did this.” This is the final statement Beth ever hears from her mother, and it remains with her for the entirety of her life.
The guilt intensifies on the anniversary of Evelyn’s demise, during which a contemporary Beth reproaches her father for engaging in an affair and notoriously bathes unclothed in a horse trough while consuming champagne in the presence of Yellowstone’s staff. Beth’s identity was shaped by that pivotal day.
Did Evelyn Hate Beth?
The only other episode of Yellowstone featuring Evelyn Dutton is season 1, episode 7, titled “A Monster Among Us,” which provides additional insight into the intricate relationship between the Dutton family matriarch and Beth.
This flashback transpires on December 25, 1996, revealing a gentler aspect of Evelyn towards her daughter. While the boys eagerly anticipate opening their Christmas presents, Beth is distressed by the onset of her first menstruation. Evelyn graciously places her in the bath and delivers a discourse to Beth:
I will share with you something my mother conveyed to me.and you will likely disapprove of it. All circumstances have changed now. All the males you previously outpaced and outmaneuvered are now a thing of the past.
They will perceive you differently and regard you in a distinct manner. They will regard you as inferior. You are, in fact, stronger. I must transform you into the individual that the majority of guys will never become.
I apologize in advance for my actions, as they are likely to displease you, dear. Upon reflection, I acknowledge that my mother was correct. It was the finest gift she ever bestowed upon me, and now I must present it to you.
Evelyn passes away merely three months later, elucidating her harshness towards Beth that day; she regarded Beth’s anxiety as a sign of weakness, contrary to her principles. Nevertheless, Evelyn’s stringent parenting style results in Beth experiencing a continual condition of stopped growth following her mother’s demise.
Beth undoubtedly acquired resilience, however it exacted a significant toll. This elucidates her frequent outbursts akin to those of an irate adolescent — as the individual whose validation she fervently seeks will perpetually be absent.
Beth’s desire for validation is consistently evident in her connection with her father, however manifested in a distinct manner. John consistently exhibited love and sympathy towards Beth. He consoled her following her mother’s collapse, starkly contrasting with Evelyn’s caustic demeanor towards her daughter in her last moments.
As an adult, Beth exhibits childlike behavior towards John, referring to him as “Daddy” and complying with his every directive, even when she is aware of his inaccuracies. Initially, Beth appears to embody numerous paradoxes; yet, observing her relationship with Evelyn elucidates the character from Yellowstone significantly.
Check out the deep storylines and complex relationships in Yellowstone! Look into Beth Dutton’s creation, influenced by her mother Evelyn’s legacy, and investigate the compelling moments that characterize this renowned neo-Western. Visit our website for comprehensive analysis and updates on the Dutton family saga that you will not want to overlook!