As anticipation builds for Season 4 of the hit television series “Yellowstone,” premiering on Sunday, November 7, fans are eager to delve deeper into the dramatic narratives and stunning Montana landscapes. Whether drawn in by the compelling characters like Rip and Beth, the breathtaking scenery, or the spectacular American Quarter Horses that grace the screen, “Yellowstone” consistently captivates its audience. This season promises another exciting installment, highlighting the integral role of these magnificent equine athletes.
For those with a particular fondness for the American Quarter Horses, the show offers a unique platform to appreciate their athleticism and importance within the western lifestyle. We’ve gathered some fascinating insights into the show’s connection with these horses, including the real-life experiences of the talent both in front of and behind the camera. The presence of skilled equestrians and champion horses is no accident, as the show’s creator is deeply immersed in the world of competitive horse riding.
FACT 1: The Vision Behind “Yellowstone”
The driving force behind “Yellowstone” is AQHA life member Taylor Sheridan, who not only writes and directs but also produces the series. Sheridan’s personal passion for reining and cutting competitions directly influences the show’s narrative, leading him to incorporate these equestrian sports and their top athletes into the storyline. His significant contributions to showcasing the western lifestyle and the American Quarter Horse have been widely recognized. He was honored with the AQHA Spirit Award at the 2019 AQHA World Championship Show and was inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame in March of this year. This award celebrates individuals who embody the western heritage of the American Quarter Horse, and Sheridan’s dedication has undeniably placed these incredible animals in the global spotlight.
FACT 2: A Champion on Screen
Fans of reining were thrilled in Season 1, Episode 5, with the appearance of AQHA reining world champion and National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Futurity champion, Lil Joe Cash. He shared the screen with NRHA $5 million rider and trainer Andrea Fappani. Owned by Lil Joe Cash Inc., this impressive 2008 sorrel stallion is a product of Nu Chex To Cash and the renowned AQHA Superhorse, RS Lilly Starlight. Lil Joe Cash’s presence underscored the show’s commitment to featuring authentic equestrian talent.
FACT 3: Metallic Cat’s Upcoming Role
The horse industry is eagerly awaiting the involvement of the celebrated cutting horse, Metallic Cat, in future seasons of “Yellowstone.” Bobby Patton, Metallic Cat’s owner, secured the rights for his horse to be written into the show’s script. This acquisition was made at a gala during the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Futurity in December, with a winning bid of $165,000 benefiting the NCHA Charities Foundation. Metallic Cat, a former NCHA Futurity champion and NCHA Horse of the Year, has established himself as a leading sire in the cutting and reined cow horse disciplines.
FACT 4: A Multi-Talented Stallion
Custom Made Gun, a co-champion of The Run for a Million and a medalist at the World Equestrian Games, also made an appearance in Season 1, Episode 5. This 2011 palomino stallion, owned by Maria Cecilia Fiorucci of Italy, is by the famous Colonels Smoking Gun (known as “Gunner”) and out of the Hollywood Dun It daughter, Custom Made Dunit.
FACT 5: A Legacy in the Saddle
While Custom Made Gun achieved significant success in the show pen with NRHA’s youngest $1 million rider and trainer, Cade McCutcheon, it was Cade’s grandfather, NRHA $3 million rider and trainer Tim McQuay, who rode the stallion in Season 1. The McCutcheon family’s deep roots in the reining world were further highlighted when Cade, alongside his parents, NRHA $1 million rider and trainer Tom McCutcheon and NRHA $2 million non-pro rider Mandy McCutcheon, appeared in Season 2, Episode 5.
FACT 6: Matt Mills Joins the Cast
NRHA professional trainer Matt Mills also featured in Season 2, Episode 5, participating in a reining competition. The event included a thrilling showdown between the McCutcheons, Travis Wheatley (portrayed by Taylor Sheridan), and Yellowstone ranch hand Jimmy Hurdstrom. Mills, who has also appeared on the Paramount Network show “The Last Cowboy,” shared valuable insights on improving reining scores in a previous article, demonstrating his extensive expertise. You can find tips from Matt Mills to improve your reining circle scores here.
FACT 7: Walla Walla Starbuck’s Debut
In Season 1, Episode 5, reining trainer Tom Foran was seen riding Walla Walla Starbuck. This 2012 red dun stallion, owned by Taylor Sheridan, boasts impressive NRHA earnings exceeding $50,000, showcasing his competitive prowess.
FACT 8: Additional Equine Stars
The series also features Spookernickerin, an NRHA money-earning sorrel gelding owned by Jules Stewart, and Dun It Chexinic. The latter is a 2007 bay gelding with over $32,000 in reining earnings, who is also owned and shown by Taylor Sheridan himself, further emphasizing his personal connection to the horses featured.
FACT 9: Authenticity Through “Cowboy Camp”
To ensure authenticity, Taylor Sheridan sent the “Yellowstone” actors to a rigorous “cowboy camp.” Coached by cutting horse trainer Jake Ream, this four-day immersive experience in the Utah mountains involved camping, herding sheep, and self-sufficient care for both themselves and the horses. Extensive saddle time during this camp resulted in the exceptional on-screen riding abilities displayed by the cast, deepening their connection to the western way of life. For newcomers to the equestrian world, like Jefferson White who plays Jimmy Hurdstrom, “cowboy camp” provided an essential introduction to horses, fostering a symbiotic learning process with his character throughout the series.
FACT 10: Beth Dutton’s Unexpected Connection
While the character Beth Dutton is famously portrayed as having a deep aversion to horses, stemming from a childhood accident, actress Kelly Reilly brings a real-life passion for riding to the role. Having grown up primarily riding English-style, Reilly worked closely with reining trainer Tom Foran and Sled and Tamara Reynolds of Gentle Jungle, a renowned animal wrangling business, to perfect her western riding for scenes later in the series. Reilly, a longtime horsewoman, expressed that she “always dreamed about being in a Western,” bringing an authentic enthusiasm to her portrayal.
FACT 11: The Legendary Four Sixes Ranch
The historic Four Sixes Ranch, a recipient of the AQHA Best Remuda Award, is set to become a significant element in the “Yellowstone” storyline. Scenes filmed at this iconic Texas ranch will be featured in upcoming seasons. Furthermore, a spinoff series, aptly titled “6666,” will be filmed at the ranch, exploring its rich history and enduring mission to breed and raise the finest horses and livestock. This legendary establishment is where true cowboys are forged. Notably, the Four Sixes Ranch has reportedly been purchased by the Yellowstone Creators Group, suggesting an even deeper integration into the show’s universe.
The upcoming Season 4 premiere of “Yellowstone” on Sunday, November 7, promises to reveal the fates of beloved characters and continue showcasing the magnificent American Quarter Horses that Taylor Sheridan has so skillfully integrated into the series. The show serves as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy and appeal of these exceptional animals within the American West.
