The latest episode of “Yellowstone,” titled “Give the World Away,” has stirred a significant wave of criticism among fans and commentators alike. The show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan, has increasingly appeared to prioritize showcasing his vision of a hyper-masculine cowboy persona over delivering compelling storytelling. This was further exacerbated by the introduction of supermodel Bella Hadid in the latest installment, where she plays Sadie, the girlfriend of Sheridan’s character, Travis Wheatley.
Hadid’s entrance brings about a bizarre dynamic, with the show’s narrative spiraling into what some perceive as a self-indulgent fantasy. In a scene where she first engages with the character Beth Dutton, Hadid’s character innocently inquires if Beth is the masseuse, which sets the tone for a disjointed blend of objectification and male fantasy. As the episode progresses, it becomes evident that Travis Wheatley, portrayed by Sheridan, embodies a stereotypical, arrogant cowboy archetype that critics argue reflects poorly on contemporary masculinity.
The episode contains a peculiar layer of meta-commentary with Sheridan allowing his character to be self-identified as condescending and misogynistic, only to have the narrative suggest that these flaws are trivial compared to the allure of his cowboy persona. This dissonance has prompted discussions about how the portrayal of masculinities is evolving—or rather, regressing—in modern storytelling.
Additionally, Beth’s character arc has taken a troubling turn. Once a strong and independent figure, she now finds herself needing Travis’s help and making questionable compromises that undermine her established strength. This shift raises concerns about the representation of female characters and the messages being conveyed about relationships in “Yellowstone.”
Moreover, the show’s focus seems to have diverted from its original themes of the American West’s decline, leaning into what might be perceived as a vendetta against former cast member Kevin Costner’s character, John Dutton III. The inclusion of branded merchandise and personal cameos from Sheridan suggests a prioritization of spectacle over substance, leading some long-time fans to feel disenchanted.
In summary, this episode of “Yellowstone” reflects an ongoing dilemma within the series, balancing the rich backdrop of the American West with the personal indulgences of its creator. As the season progresses, there remains hope that character development will regain momentum, allowing figures like Beth and Hadid’s Sadie to emerge from the shadows of such overbearing portrayals, thus returning to the show’s roots of captivating storytelling and complex character relationships. This change could potentially reinvigorate both the narrative and its audience’s engagement, leading to a more satisfying conclusion for the series.