The hit series Yellowstone has captured audiences with its gripping storylines, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable characters. Created by Taylor Sheridan, the show follows the intense lives of the Dutton family as they fight to protect their Montana ranch. From ruthless business dealings to heartfelt moments, Yellowstone characters have become a part of the show’s cultural phenomenon.
But which characters stand out the most? In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 best characters in Yellowstone, ranked from the undeniable stars to the ones who quietly steal every scene. The characters are ranked based on their impact on the show, their complexities, and how unforgettable they are.
So, let’s break it down and find out who takes the crown as the best character in Yellowstone!
10. Beth Dutton – The Unpredictable and Fearless Queen
Beth Dutton (played by Kelly Reilly) is not just the Dutton family’s daughter; she’s the emotional powerhouse that keeps the show’s intensity at an all-time high. Known for her fiery temper, sharp tongue, and unapologetically ruthless nature, Beth is a character who does not let anyone stand in her way. Whether she’s taking down a rival in business or standing by her family’s side, Beth’s unpredictability is both thrilling and dangerous.
Her complex backstory, which includes a traumatic past and deep family loyalty, makes her one of the most intriguing and emotionally charged characters on Yellowstone.
While Beth may not always be the most sympathetic character, her fierce attitude and quick wit make her one of the show’s most memorable figures.
9. Monica Dutton – The Heart of the Dutton Family
As the wife of Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) and mother to their son, Tate, Monica Dutton (Kelsey Asbille) brings a grounding presence to the show. Monica is strong, intelligent, and fiercely protective of her family. As a Native American woman, she also offers a critical perspective on the struggles and cultural clashes within the world of Yellowstone.
Though she doesn’t get the same screen time as the other Duttons, Monica’s storylines provide essential emotional depth. Her struggles with balancing her cultural heritage and life on the Dutton ranch give her a unique place in the series.
8. Rip Wheeler – The Loyal, Brooding Protector
Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) is the quintessential cowboy with a heart of gold. A man of few words, Rip is the embodiment of loyalty and devotion. As John Dutton’s right-hand man and the protector of the ranch, Rip’s tough exterior hides a deep well of emotions and a complicated past.
Rip’s unwavering loyalty to the Dutton family, especially to Beth, has made him a fan favorite. His relationship with Beth is intense and complex, filled with both love and pain, and his rough-around-the-edges persona makes him an intriguing character to watch.
7. Jamie Dutton – The Ambitious and Troubled Son
Jamie Dutton (Wes Bentley) might be the Dutton family’s black sheep, but that doesn’t stop him from being a crucial figure in the series. The adopted son of John Dutton, Jamie is a lawyer with ambitions of his own, but his relationship with his family is strained, particularly with his father.
Jamie is often caught in the crossfire between his desire for power and his loyalty to the family. His complex internal conflict and occasional desperation make him one of the most multi-faceted and unpredictable characters on the show. Jamie’s darker moments and moral compromises offer an added layer of drama to the series.
6. John Dutton – The Powerful Patriarch
At the heart of Yellowstone is John Dutton (Kevin Costner), the patriarch of the Dutton family and owner of the sprawling Yellowstone Ranch. John is a man of principle, fiercely protective of his land and his family. His stoic demeanor and commanding presence make him a natural leader, though his relationships with his children are far from simple.
John’s tough-love approach to parenting and leadership gives him a significant role in shaping the show’s narrative. Kevin Costner’s portrayal of John Dutton adds layers of complexity to the character, making him both revered and feared.
5. Kayce Dutton – The Reluctant Heir
Kayce Dutton, played by Luke Grimes, is the youngest son of John Dutton and one of the most morally complex characters in the series. Kayce returns to the ranch after a stint in the military, but his heart is torn between his loyalty to his family and his desire for a more peaceful, isolated life with his wife, Monica.
Kayce’s internal struggles, especially with his identity as a Dutton and his attempts to break free from the family’s violent and ruthless world, make him a relatable and compelling character. His quiet strength, combined with moments of vulnerability, keeps viewers invested in his journey.
4. Thomas Rainwater – The Strategic and Cunning Tribal Leader
Thomas Rainwater (Gil Birmingham) is the chairman of the Broken Rock Indian Reservation and one of the show’s most complex characters. His role as a Native American leader fighting for his people’s rights often puts him at odds with the Dutton family. However, Rainwater is far more than just an adversary.
His intelligence, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of power dynamics make him a fascinating character to watch. Rainwater is driven by a desire for justice, but he also knows how to play the game, making him a powerful force in Yellowstone.
3. Lloyd Pierce – The Old-School Cowboy
Lloyd Pierce (Forrie J. Smith) is the seasoned ranch hand and one of the most respected figures on the Yellowstone Ranch. Known for his tough, no-nonsense attitude, Lloyd is a classic cowboy character with a deep sense of honor. Though often seen as a side character, Lloyd’s wisdom, loyalty, and sometimes emotional vulnerability make him a standout presence on the show.
His friendship with Rip and his relationship with the younger cowboys adds a layer of depth to his character, showing that he’s more than just a grizzled ranch hand—he’s a mentor and a protector of the Yellowstone legacy.
2. Beth Dutton (Again!) – The Ultimate Powerhouse
Okay, we’ve already talked about Beth, but when we think about the most impactful characters in Yellowstone, it’s hard not to mention her twice. Whether it’s her sharp business acumen or her ability to dismantle an enemy with one devastating line, Beth’s firecracker personality elevates the stakes in every episode.
Whether she’s in a boardroom or on horseback, Beth commands attention. And let’s be real—she’s the character everyone loves to hate, but also secretly root for.
1. Rip Wheeler – The Undisputed Favorite
Though Beth is undeniably a powerhouse, Rip Wheeler earns the top spot as the most beloved and compelling character in Yellowstone. Rip is the ultimate cowboy, protector, and man of honor. His unwavering loyalty, both to the Dutton family and to Beth, creates a magnetic on-screen presence that fans can’t help but adore.
Rip’s quiet strength and complex emotional journey give him a depth that makes him not just a secondary character, but a defining figure in the series. His raw vulnerability and fierce dedication to those he loves make him the true heart of Yellowstone.
Conclusion: Yellowstone‘s Characters Keep Us Coming Back for More
From the ruthless power plays of Beth Dutton to the quiet, emotional depth of Rip Wheeler, Yellowstone offers a rich array of characters who draw us in with their complexities, motivations, and struggles. Each character has a role to play in the intricate web of drama, and every one of them adds something invaluable to the series.
As we continue to watch the Dutton family navigate their turbulent world, it’s clear that these characters are far more than just participants—they are the reason Yellowstone continues to capture hearts and minds worldwide.
