1923 marks the second spin-off from Taylor Sheridan’s expansive Western film dynasty, delving into the Dutton family saga during the 20th century. Amidst the struggles of drought, prohibition, and the dawning Great Depression, this series illustrates how contemporary life gradually influences the Old West. Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren portray Jacob and Cara Dutton, the head and heart of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, established by James (Tim McGraw), Jacob’s brother. As they resist change that is sweeping past them, they confront adversaries who threaten their land: Donald Whitfield (Timothy Dalton) and Banner Creighton (Jerome Flynn).
Jack, Darren Mann and grandnephew to Jacob, assists in managing the ranch and is set to marry Liz Strafford, a city dweller played by Michelle Randolph, who lives with them too. Spencer, their nephew portrayed by Brandon Sklenar, encounters hurdles during his homecoming, yet he discovers romance along the way with Alexandra, played by Julia Schlaepfer. The narrative intertwines with the captivating accounts of Teonna Rainwater, a Crow native teen portrayed by Aminah Nieves, who bravely flees her oppressors.
From least to most likable, here’s how the main characters of 1923 stack up.
10
Donald Whitfield
Played by Timothy Dalton
The most notorious antagonist in Paradise Valley is Donald Whitfield, a cunning and power-hungry mining magnate who has been causing trouble for the Dutton family since their arrival. His ultimate goal is to force them off their ranch and seize it entirely. At the end of Season 1, he threatens to take ownership of Yellowstone Ranch by paying its property taxes, which could put the land at risk if Jacob can’t cover the costs. In Season 2, Episode 4, we learn that Whitfield intends to transform the Duttons’ vast lands into a luxurious winter park resort catering exclusively to the wealthy elite.
A Vile Sadist
The wealthy British-American tycoon is not just a danger to the Duttons; instead, Whitfield represents an immoral individual with no trace of compassion or empathy. He finds joy in cruelty and derives satisfaction from controlling others. In a chilling act, he incites two prostitutes (Madison Elise Rogers as Lindy and Cailyn Rice as Christy) to assault each other, favoring one over the other to maintain her as a victim, always keeping the other tied up and battered. When the abused woman succumbs to her injuries, he sends Lindy to find a replacement for their twisted games of dehumanization, mistreatment, and humiliation.
9
Father Renaud
Played by Sebastian Roché
In a chilling yet captivating performance, Sebastian Roché plays the symbol of one of the most horrific evils in U.S. history – religious figures who cruelly forced assimilation upon Native American children through abuse. Regrettably, the 1923 North Dakota Boarding School for Native Americans provides a fairly accurate representation of the harsh reality these institutions inflicted on Indigenous youth. As per a 2022 Interior Department report, a staggering 408 federal boarding schools for Native Americans subjected children to physical abuse, sexual assault, forced labor, and malnutrition. Approximately 53 distinct schools had burial grounds.
The Face of Evil
In the same way as in everyday life, the school was operated by Sisters and Clergymen under Father Renaud with such extreme harshness that it resulted in a grim situation requiring a cemetery. Father Renaud, who views himself as a righteous and earthly leader, has also been involved in abusive behavior. His hypocrisy is boundless. He and the Catholic Church have committed heinous sins, while Teonna has only ever fought for justice against her oppressors. His fixation on her has left destruction in its wake. Despite this, he still views himself as virtuous. This man, who embodies nothing but prejudice and wickedness, has no connection to Christianity.
8
Banner Creighton
Played by Jerome Flynn
1923 introduces Banner Creighton as its first adversary, as he clashes with Jacob right off the bat by allowing his flock to graze on Yellowstone Ranch land. Ignoring the warning from the Dutton patriarch, he repeats this action a second time, resulting in his hanging from a tree. This incident provokes Banner to mobilize his men for a gunfight, which results in the loss of several lives within the Dutton family.
A Man Scorned
Throughout his struggle against the Duttons, Banner chooses to align himself with Whitfield, initiating a war on the family as a result. Banner recognizes the dangerous nature of Whitfield and has openly expressed his fear, yet his ambition for power and wealth remains unyielding. He justifies his actions by claiming he’s trying to improve his family’s life, but he isn’t above committing murder to achieve it. Moreover, his wife and child are potentially endangered due to their connection with Whitfield. Despite occasional moments of doubt, Banner persists in executing Whitfield’s underhanded tasks.
7
Jack Dutton
Played by Darren Mann
In the year of 1923, Jack Dutton is the youngest member of his family. He is the son of John and Emma Dutton (portrayed by James Badge Dale and Marley Shelton). Unfortunately, his parents are killed in Season 1 following an attack by Banner on the family. Despite his reckless, spontaneous, and determined character, Jack demonstrates a strong sense of honor and responsibility that suggests he could become a worthy cowboy to continue the Dutton family legacy. With Jacob guiding him and imparting priceless knowledge, it’s clear that Jack has the potential to achieve great things.
A Wild-Spirited Cowboy With Room to Grow
Jack’s most frustrating characteristic might be his obliviousness towards his new spouse, Liz. Despite this, he frequently leaves her behind, which could be attributed to his own sorrow following the incident where she was shot and her father lost his life. However, given their situation, they both needed each other’s support more than ever. After the wolf attack, Liz considered leaving him, but as an inexperienced husband, Jack could use some leeway. He still has potential to grow and improve in his role as a spouse.
6
Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Strafford
Played by Michelle Randolph
Despite the fact that Liz was born to parents who managed the Strafford Ranch in Montana, she has no experience or understanding of ranch life. Instead, she spent her school years and winters in the bustling East Coast city of Boston. Consequently, when she moves into the Dutton home before marrying Jack, she finds it challenging to adapt to her new way of life and environment, as well as cope with his frequent absences.
The Girl Is a Keeper
The impoverished young lady has faced numerous hardships on Yellowstone Ranch. She was wounded by gunfire, lost her father, and her mother deserted her. Her cherished wedding plans were put off and eventually scrapped. Later, she suffered a miscarriage. More recently, she was assaulted by an infected wolf. Despite the perception that Liz is merely a delicate soul who should toughen up and bear it, she’s putting forth every effort to do so. In time, she’s also demonstrating her mettle and becoming as tough as her in-laws. Leaving behind a comfortable life for a far more challenging one requires courage. Nonetheless, Liz is unwaveringly devoted to Jack. He certainly struck it rich with her.
5
Spencer Dutton
Played by Brandon Sklenar
Spencer Dutton, born in 1883, is the last living brother of James and Margaret Dutton (portrayed by Faith Hill). His sister Elsa (characterized by Isabel May) passed away before his birth. After their parents’ demise, Spencer and John remained on the family estate until their uncle Jacob and Aunt Cara arrived. The series subtly suggests a complex past for Spencer prior to Africa and returning to Montana. Without doubt, Spencer endured harrowing experiences during World War I. Upon encountering Alex, a more tender aspect is revealed in the hardened war veteran turned accomplished hunter.
A Softie Beneath a Cool Exterior
Spencer’s enigmatic and introspective traits undeniably captivate viewers, making them intrigued by his persona. He is a multifaceted individual, with many hidden depths to uncover. Despite projecting a tough facade, there lies a gentle and affectionate side within him that endears him greatly. His romantic relationship with Alex forms the most grandiose and passionate love narrative in the series, further enhancing his appeal. The intricacies of his character development and his challenging journey make Spencer one of the most compelling characters in “1923”.
4
Alexandra ‘Alex’ Dutton
Played by Julia Schlaepfer
The Dutton men have a knack for selecting their partners shrewdly; Alex, Spencer’s recent bride, is no different in this regard. They first crossed paths in Africa during a safari that Alex was on with her former fiancé, Arthur II (played by Rafe Soule), who was the son of the Earl of Sussex (Bruce Davison). From the very beginning, Alex found herself drawn to Spencer. Before he set off for his next adventure, she decisively broke off her engagement with her fiancé and chose to follow the path less traveled with the big game hunter – a daring, courageous act for a woman of her era.
A Resilient Character
In a surprising turn of events, Alex, once a countess accustomed to opulence, abandoned her lavish lifestyle to chart her own path, brimming with enriching experiences rather than for the sake of any man. Since then, she has undergone significant transformation, from a naive and privileged individual into an unyielding character in the 1923 series. Relinquishing social duties and public appearances has led her to confront progressively difficult trials, which have intensified as she embarks on a journey to Montana to reconnect with her husband. Despite encountering hardship and brutality, she remains undeterred. Instead, these adversities have fueled her resolve even further. It’s no surprise that Alex manages to overpower and cow an immigration officer into granting her entry into the United States.
3
Jacob Dutton
Played by Harrison Ford
In an exceptional fashion, Harrison Ford portrays the quintessential gritty Dutton man, infusing his character with a captivating blend of rugged wisdom that makes him endearing. The story unfolds as we learn that Jacob and his wife ventured to Montana following his brother’s demise, discovering his sister-in-law deceased from frostbite and his two nephews malnourished and abandoned. Adopting John and Spencer, he and Cara devoted themselves to carrying on his brother’s vision and safeguarding the heritage of the boys.
A True Family Man
Jacob takes actions primarily for his family rather than himself. His efforts to transform Yellowstone Ranch into a substantial domain have garnered adversaries, yet he’s never been deterred by their presence. If required, he’d risk his life to safeguard Spencer’s inheritance. Wise as he is, he acknowledges that he doesn’t always have all the answers and relies on those close to him for decision-making. Jacob demonstrates a tender side in his interactions with Cara and Liz.
2
Cara Dutton
Played by Helen Mirren
The acclaimed actress Helen Mirren takes on the role of matriarch Cara Dutton in this production, utilizing her charisma to captivate audiences. Over time, she has worked alongside her husband to grow the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch into a thriving and successful enterprise. Her determination and resilience mirror those of her husband, whom she stands by faithfully and steadfastly. As a mother figure to her nephews, she nurtured John and Spencer as if they were her own children. Wise, bold, courageous, and kind-hearted, Cara Dutton is undeniably one of the most compelling characters in the franchise.
A Woman Men Should Fear
In an extraordinary fashion, Cara demonstrates exceptional leadership within the family. When Jacob is on the brink of death, she steps in for him at the Montana Livestock Commission. She fearlessly confronts Banner Creighton and Donald Whitfield, never backing down in the face of their intimidation tactics. To Liz, she becomes a nurturing mentor and confidante. Cara masterfully balances firmness with kindness. She embodies the epitome of a trailblazing pioneer woman.
1
Teonna Rainwater
Played by Aminah Nieves
Teonna Rainwater stands out as one of Taylor Sheridan’s most endearing characters, characterized by her strength and likability. Her initial appearance is marked by a harrowing nightmare, a common experience for indigenous children during that era, within an abusive Catholic boarding school. Despite the unimaginable atrocities she experienced within its walls, Teonna’s spirit remained undeterred. She is not one to back down in the face of adversity, often challenging her oppressors boldly, much like Alex. Resilience and determination define Teonna.
More Than Her Trauma
The incredible resilience and determination that Teonna possesses are what have allowed her to survive. What she did to free herself from her abusers is truly commendable and awe-inspiring. Indeed, in such a situation, survival often means taking drastic actions. It was a matter of life or death. The individuals who met their end were undeniably deserving of much more than they received. Their demise can be seen as a form of mercy compared to the torment they would have faced in the afterlife. Despite relentless attempts to erase her identity and culture, Teonna held onto these aspects fiercely, using them as motivation on her path towards liberation.
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2025-03-30 06:33