Yellowstone

10 Best Episodes of Yellowstone

Yellowstone is a popular television series that has been airing on Paramount Network since 2018. The show follows the lives of the Dutton family, who own and operate the largest contiguous ranch in the United States. Fans of the show have been eagerly awaiting each season, as the series has grown in popularity, and it is now in its seventh season. With so many great episodes of Yellowstone, it can be difficult to know which are the best. Here we take a look at the top ranked episodes and why they stand out from the rest.

The show has had a range of high-quality episodes since it first aired, and the seventh season is no exception. From emotionally charged moments to high-stakes drama, the show has something for everyone. In this list of the best episodes from Yellowstone, we will be ranking the episodes from best to worst, so that you can easily decide which episodes to watch first.

So, if you are looking to get the most out of your viewing experience, make sure to check out these top-ranked episodes of Yellowstone. So, without further ado, here are the best episodes of Yellowstone that you should definitely watch!

Written by Sophie and last updated on mar 26, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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Yellowstone - S5E8

#15 - A Knife and No Coin (Season 5 - Episode 8)

The mid-season finale of Yellowstone proved to be an interesting episode. Jamie, the annoying pain in the ass, finally decided to stand up for himself, which made viewers nervous at the beginning of the episode. John, on the other hand, lent support to an unexpected friend. The Yellowstone cowboys embarked on a journey, and a flashback revealed the source of Rip's loyalty.

Though some viewers thought the episode was a little slow and disjointed, they still enjoyed it. Jamie's decision to stand up for himself made viewers hopeful that he will ultimately recognize Sarah's manipulation of him. John's support for an unexpected friend surprised viewers. The Yellowstone cowboys journey offered some insight into the source of Rip's loyalty. Overall, the episode was enjoyable, but it left viewers wanting more tension and excitement for the second half of the season.

The episode was rated 7.92 from 1733 votes.

Yellowstone - S5E3

#14 - Tall Drink of Water (Season 5 - Episode 3)

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In the episode Tall Drink of Water of the show Yellowstone, Beth heads to Salt Lake City to take care of unfinished business, a trap is set for Jamie, Kayce makes an important decision for his family, and Thomas Rainwater deals with mounting pressure. Finally, the character of Rip, who had been absent for much of the season, makes an appearance in this episode and showcases his macho tough guy attitude. Beth also manages to create more trouble, much to the amusement of viewers. However, this episode was more dramatic than many other episodes, leaving viewers wishing for more of the cowboy fights the show is known for.

The episode Tall Drink of Water of the show Yellowstone provides plenty of drama and chaotic moments. Beth is off to Salt Lake City to take care of unfinished business, while Jamie finds himself in a trap, Kayce makes a decision for his family and Thomas Rainwater struggles with the pressure. Meanwhile, Rip makes a long-awaited appearance with his macho tough guy attitude, and Beth stirs up more trouble, much to the amusement of viewers. Unfortunately, the episode is mostly dramatic, with not many cowboy fights as viewers had hoped. Despite this, the episode is still entertaining and packed with exciting moments.

The episode was rated 7.93 from 1846 votes.

Yellowstone - S5E4

#13 - Horses in Heaven (Season 5 - Episode 4)

In the episode Horses in Heaven of the show Yellowstone, John Dutton makes swift changes in the Capitol and the venom between Jamie and Beth reaches a boiling point. Rip updates John on his solution to the wolves, and the Yellowstone cowboys brand calves. There is an emotional scene between John and Monica, a grieving mother. John comforts her with words, saying "That boy lived a perfect life, Monica. We're the only ones who know it was brief. All he knew was you and that you loved him." Then, there is a tense scene between Jamie and Beth where Beth follows him back to where he "gets irresponsible". Everyone watching was worried that Beth might be slicing off something from Jamie, but luckily she did not.

The episode was rated 7.94 from 1825 votes.

Yellowstone - S4E8

#12 - No Kindness for the Coward (Season 4 - Episode 8)

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In the episode "No Kindness for the Coward" of the show Yellowstone, tensions escalate with protestors and Beth has a plan to solve it. The episode starts with a powerful opening scene, which was one of the best of the series. As the episode progresses, Rip's taming magic over Beth is both impressive and heartwarming. Jimmy and Emily get closer and Monica and Kayce share a special moment.

However, the fight scene in the end was a bit stupid. Starting to shoot at everybody just to save some wallets seemed rushed and unnecessary, making the characters seem invincible only when the story asks for it. The bathtub scene was also confusing and makes it hard to trust Beth's plan. The company's naivety in trusting Beth raises questions about their judgement.

The episode was rated 7.94 from 2023 votes.

Yellowstone - S5E2

#11 - The Sting of Wisdom (Season 5 - Episode 2)

In the episode "The Sting of Wisdom" of Yellowstone, John makes a passionate speech to the state of Montana, while a formidable new opponent from Market Equities arrives on a private jet, and the cowboys on the Yellowstone deal with a new problem.

The episode has been well received by viewers, with many praising the show for its political angle and in particular, Beth Dutton's character, who gave the "woke professor dude" one last chance to leave her alone. However, some viewers have noticed that the new actor playing Carter does not appear to have aged the requisite nine months between seasons.

The episode was rated 7.95 from 1963 votes.

Yellowstone - S3E4

#10 - Going Back to Cali (Season 3 - Episode 4)

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In this episode of Yellowstone, Beth shares a personal secret with Rip while John and the boys deal with hostile trespassers from out of state. Rainwater reaches out to a powerful woman to help secure the future of Broken Rock. This episode was mostly filled with lovey dovey scenes, but the bad-ass ending scene with the bikers made up for it. It reminded viewers of how powerful and scary John can be when provoked. This season has been slow-burning so far, but the story and characters have not been that interesting or new. However, the show is still enjoyable and Beth is trying to be made sympathetic all of a sudden, despite her past actions. There is also a huge cliffhanger at the end of the episode as a wolf appears while their son runs off into the woods.

The bikers scene in this episode did not necessarily add to the story, but it gave some entertainment value. This episode has shown the slow build up of the season, as it has felt like an extended pilot across four episodes. Despite this, the show is still pretty good and entertaining, with the bikers scene being a good balance of drama and melodrama. Although the story and characters have not been that interesting or new, the show is still enjoyable and the cliffhanger ending with the wolf will have viewers on the edge of their seat for the next episode.

The episode was rated 7.95 from 2121 votes.

Yellowstone - S5E5

#9 - Watch 'Em Ride Away (Season 5 - Episode 5)

In the episode Watch 'Em Ride Away of the show Yellowstone, John decides to take a break from his Capitol meetings to join the Yellowstone cowboys in branding cattle. Meanwhile, Beth's dislike for a perceived rival reaches a tipping point.

Viewers were surprised by Beth's inner strength in the face of the rivalry with Summer. While the scene was a bit over-the-top, it was necessary to show Beth's true character. Even though this episode was considered "slow", it was still entertaining and full of surprises.

The episode was rated 7.98 from 1798 votes.

Yellowstone - S3E9

#8 - Meaner Than Evil (Season 3 - Episode 9)

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In the episode, Meaner Than Evil, Jamie confronts his past as he comes face to face with the consequences of his choices. Rip approaches Kayce about an old problem, while the bunkhouse crew looks to defend two of their own. This episode of Yellowstone serves up a healthy dose of entertainment as the bunkhouse crew exacts revenge on Wade, proving once again why this show is so beloved.

With the finale just around the corner, we are starting to see some exciting storylines come together, bridging the various plot lines. The return of Walker has been a welcome surprise, with his presence breathing new life into the show. Fans are eager to find out how things will wrap up in the season finale, and many are hoping that it will be the best finale yet.

The episode was rated 7.99 from 2092 votes.

Yellowstone - S4E2

#7 - Phantom Pain (Season 4 - Episode 2)

The episode "Phantom Pain" of the sensational show Yellowstone is packed with suspense and intrigue. The Yellowstone team is recovering and planning revenge while Rainwater receives an offer from a newcomer. The audience is then taken by surprise when Rip gets a pleasant surprise.

The episode truly captures the audience's attention and the characters are portrayed impeccably by the actors. The episode title, "Phantom Pain" hints at the complexity of the story arc, and the viewers are left guessing as to what will happen next. This episode also highlights the idea of second chances, as the characters are presented with an opportunity to start anew.

The episode was rated 8.01 from 2031 votes.

Yellowstone - S2E9

#6 - Enemies by Monday (Season 2 - Episode 9)

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In the episode Enemies by Monday of the show Yellowstone, the Duttons are preparing for a final showdown with the Becks. Meanwhile, Beth comes to the rescue for Monica, who finds herself in an awkward situation. The scene at the boutique shop was masterfully done, with viewers' eyes tearing up. For the first time, viewers find themselves liking Beth as she comes to Monica's aid. It was also no surprise that Jimmy turned to Kip for help.

The episode was a satisfying conclusion to the conflict with the Becks. Viewers get to see the Duttons take a stand against enemies, as well as Beth show her loyalty to Monica. Through Jimmy reaching out to Kip, viewers get a glimpse of his true character and the depths of his loyalties. This episode of Yellowstone was an intense and riveting ride, which left the audience with a sense of satisfaction.

The episode was rated 8.06 from 2458 votes.

Yellowstone - S4E10

#5 - Grass on the Streets and Weeds on the Rooftops (Season 4 - Episode 10)

In the Yellowstone episode "Grass on the Streets and Weeds on the Rooftops," the Duttons struggle to keep their family together in the face of newfound truths. Jimmy comes home to make difficult decisions, while Beth takes matters into her own hands.

The episode was praised for being respectful to the audience, with some viewers expecting a worse turn of events. The character development of Jimmy throughout the seasons was highlighted as a particular highlight, as evidenced by the iconic line "Hell, Jimmy. You're a cowboy already."

The episode was rated 8.06 from 2115 votes.

Yellowstone - S2E7

#4 - Resurrection Day (Season 2 - Episode 7)

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In the episode "Resurrection Day" of the show Yellowstone, Jamie is driven to a dark place while struggling with the consequences of his previous decisions. Meanwhile, Malcolm threatens Beth and Monica and Tate move to the ranch with Kayce.

The episode is filled with tension, as Jamie is faced with the difficult task of dealing with the aftermath of his decisions. Beth, on the other hand, is threatened by Malcolm and her vulnerability is made apparent. Furthermore, Monica and Tate’s move to the ranch with Kayce add to the complexity of the situation.

The episode is full of emotion and drama, as Jamie is scolded for his decisions, and Beth’s meanness and strength is made more apparent. Kelly Reilly is praised for her performance in the episode, as she adds depth to the character of Beth and her past is revealed. It is evident that the difficult conditions of her childhood have had an effect on her behaviour.

Overall, this episode has been praised as one of the best so far in the show. It is filled with tension and emotion, and the performances of the actors have been highly appreciated.

The episode was rated 8.16 from 2442 votes.

Yellowstone - S2E10

#3 - Sins of the Father (Season 2 - Episode 10)

The season finale of Yellowstone was action-packed yet left something to be desired. There was a lot of buildup for the Duttons to take down the Becks but the payoff was not as satisfying. Questions arose when the second Beck brother was found sitting on the toilet after being told to leave and the house that Rip and Beth went to was unclear. There was also confusion over why the Duttons suddenly did everything by the book when the grandson was kidnapped and in danger. The deaths of the Beck brothers were also anticlimactic and not as satisfying. This episode felt like it was wrapped up too quickly and that a bigger payoff was expected.

The emotions were high in this episode, especially when John acknowledged Rip as his son and left the ranch to him. However, the writing was sloppy and left some unanswered questions. For example, why does Beth hate Jamie so much and why is Monica still alive? Some of the action was short-lived such as the firefight with the "Militia" which only lasted about 10 shots. Even though this episode was not as expected, Yellowstone still remains one of the best shows on and fans are looking forward to season 3.

The episode was rated 8.19 from 2440 votes.

Yellowstone - S4E1

#2 - Half the Money (Season 4 - Episode 1)

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The season premiere of Yellowstone introduces a coordinated attack on the Duttons, leaving everyone searching for answers as to who is responsible. Rip, a Dutton family member, delivers on a promise, making the episode Half the Money even more exciting. The episode has been highly praised by viewers, with many expressing their love for the show.

The suspense in Half the Money is amplified by the mysterious antagonist, who is still unknown by the end of the episode. Despite this, the episode manages to deliver on the promise by Rip, a major character, which keeps viewers anticipating what's coming next. This season opener is a great start to the season, with viewers eager to see what will happen next.

The episode was rated 8.26 from 2154 votes.

Yellowstone - S3E10

#1 - The World Is Purple (Season 3 - Episode 10)

The finale of Yellowstone's season 3 certainly left viewers with plenty to ponder. In the episode, "The World Is Purple", John Dutton is forced to negotiate with former friends and foes. As the battle for the future of the Yellowstone heats up, it is clear that nothing will ever be the same.

The finale was quite intense, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. The tension heightened when Jamie Dutton, John Dutton's son, came face-to-face with Rip Wheeler, who had become somewhat of an enemy of the Duttons. It was clear that Jamie's days of being in the good graces of the Duttons were over and viewers were left wondering what was going to happen next.

The last five minutes of the finale were particularly shocking as the Duttons were on the receiving end of an attack. It is clear that Jamie will be a major antagonist in Season 4, as his character arc has been built up over the previous three seasons. Despite some filler episodes throughout the season, the finale did not disappoint, leaving viewers anxious for the next season of the show.

The episode was rated 8.34 from 2162 votes.

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