The Yellowstone universe, created by Taylor Sheridan, is known for its intense storylines, powerful characters, and shocking plot twists. One of the most unexpected parts of the series and its prequels (1883 and 1923) is the way characters are killed off.
Whether they’re heroes or villains, no one is truly safe. This list highlights the 17 most stunning and surprising deaths from the Yellowstone franchise. From major family members to minor characters who appeared only briefly, these moments left fans in shock.
17 Most Shocking Deaths in the Yellowstone Franchise
17. Jamie Dutton – Yellowstone
After years of tension, Jamie Dutton is killed in the Season 5 finale. Viewers knew Beth wanted him gone, but the moment still shocked everyone.
16. John Dutton (Kevin Costner) – Yellowstone
Kevin Costner’s exit from the series hinted at his character’s fate. When John Dutton dies in the final season’s second part, fans knew it was coming but still found it hard to accept.
15. Elsa Dutton – 1883
Elsa was one of the main characters in 1883, and her death was seen coming from the start. Still, her death was painful to watch as we followed her journey to the end.
14. Shea Brennan – 1883
Captain Shea’s death by suicide in the finale was emotional. He had been suffering quietly all season, and though it felt like closure, the moment caught fans off guard.
13. James Dutton – 1883 / 1923
Though he survives 1883, we learn through a Yellowstone flashback and 1923 that James Dutton was shot by cattle thieves. His quiet off-screen death surprised many viewers.
12. Margaret Dutton – 1883 / 1923
Margaret’s death is mentioned in 1923, where it’s revealed she froze to death after losing James. The reveal came out of nowhere and felt deeply tragic.
11. Claire Dutton – 1883
Claire, Elsa’s aunt, dies by suicide early in 1883. Her character was intense, and her death hinted at the tragedies that would follow for the Dutton family.
10. John Dutton (1923) – 1923
This John Dutton dies in the third episode of 1923. Although not a well-developed character, his sudden death still made an impact.
9. Ennis – 1883
Elsa’s lover Ennis is killed suddenly during their journey. His death changes Elsa’s character and marks the moment the story becomes much darker.
8. Donnie Haskell – Yellowstone
A loyal sheriff and friend to the Duttons, Donnie dies in a random cafe shooting. His death had a real-world reason too, as the actor moved on to another series.
7. Fred Meyers – Yellowstone
A small character in Season 1, Fred was the first to be taken to the Duttons’ secret “train station.” His shocking end set the tone for what viewers could expect from the ranch.
6. Colby Mayfield – Yellowstone
Colby’s death during Season 5 was heart-breaking. Trying to help Carter, he ends up trampled by a horse, a tragic end for a much-loved character.
5. Roarke Morris – Yellowstone
Though not a full-blown villain, Roarke crossed the Duttons and paid the price. His iconic snake-in-a-cooler death by Rip was both bizarre and memorable.
4. Alexandra – 1923
Alexandra’s story mirrored Elsa’s, leading many to expect a sad ending. Still, her death in Episode 7 left viewers emotional and heartbroken.
3. Sarah Atwood – Yellowstone
A clear enemy to the Duttons, Sarah’s death wasn’t a surprise—but the timing and execution were. She was taken out midway through Season 5, Part B.
2. Jack Dutton – 1923
Jack is ambushed by Clyde before he can even draw his weapon. His sudden death was both shocking and tragic, making it one of the series’ most powerful moments.
1. Lee Dutton – Yellowstone
Lee’s death in the very first episode of Yellowstone set the tone for the entire franchise. He was a major character, and his quick death told viewers to expect the unexpected.