Yellowstone Show: Drama On and Off the Screen
Yellowstone, the TV series known for its dramatic storylines and family conflicts, has been at the center of both onscreen and offscreen controversies since it premiered in June 2018.
Creator Taylor Sheridan and the cast have faced criticism for allegedly tailoring the show to a conservative audience. However, Sheridan dismissed these claims, stating that the show addresses various controversial topics, such as Native American displacement, corporate greed, and land-grabbing. He challenged the notion that Yellowstone is solely a “red-state” show.
Lead actor Kevin Costner, who plays a central role in the series, has also faced criticism for his political opinions. Costner supported former Congresswoman Liz Cheney’s re-election bid in 2022, which led to backlash from conservative viewers. Despite this, Costner stood by his decision, emphasizing his appreciation for Cheney’s stance regardless of the consequences.
Costner’s political involvement isn’t limited to one party. He endorsed Democratic candidate Pete Buttigieg for the 2020 presidential nomination, praising Buttigieg’s message of unity and compassion.
Despite the controversies and threats from viewers to stop watching, Yellowstone remains a popular show. The season 5 premiere in November 2022 attracted a massive audience of 12.1 million viewers, making it the most-watched scripted series of the 2022-23 TV season. Costner acknowledged the show’s success, emphasizing its unique journey to popularity.
As Yellowstone continues to captivate audiences, both onscreen and offscreen, let’s take a closer look at some of the significant offscreen drama that has unfolded over the years.