Yellowstone Season 5 Episode 10, The Apocalypse of Change, risked undermining the gravity of John Dutton III’s death with a disjointed and misplaced opening sequence. The episode kicks off in Texas, weeks before John’s tragic fate, with a seemingly unrelated event involving Teeter waking up to a rattlesnake in her tent. While this moment is symbolic of impending danger, it does little to advance the gripping storyline that was set in motion by John’s shocking murder.

Episode 9 ended on a high-stakes cliffhanger, with Beth determined to take down Jamie after uncovering his potential involvement in John’s death. However, instead of diving into the fallout, the show takes a detour, spending nearly half an episode in Texas, sidelining the central conflict. These flashbacks, while rich in Yellowstone’s signature cowboy culture, feel misplaced in a season that has limited time to wrap up such a monumental storyline.

John Dutton’s murder should have been the defining moment of this final stretch, setting the tone for his family’s war against their enemies. Yet, the episode’s pacing and structural choices risk diluting the emotional weight of his demise. Instead of an introspective look at his legacy or the ripple effects of his death, the show leans too much into spectacle and abrupt shifts in timeline, making it harder for viewers to connect with the loss.

As Yellowstone nears its conclusion, it’s crucial that John’s death isn’t reduced to just another plot twist. The show must honor the character’s legacy by ensuring his departure carries the depth, impact, and gravitas it deserves.