As the highly anticipated Season 4 of “Yellowstone” approaches, fans are buzzing with excitement for the dramatic twists, breathtaking Montana scenery, and, of course, the spectacular American Quarter Horses that grace the screen. Whether you’re drawn to the intense plotlines, the rugged charm of characters like Rip, or the undeniable beauty of these equine athletes, “Yellowstone” consistently delivers. This season, we’re taking a closer look at some fascinating facts about the show and the integral role of the American Quarter Horse within its narrative.
“Yellowstone” is the brainchild of AQHA life member Taylor Sheridan, a renowned writer, director, and producer with a deep passion for the Western lifestyle. Sheridan’s personal involvement in reining and cutting competitions directly influences the show, leading him to seamlessly integrate these equestrian sports and their top athletes into the storyline. His significant contributions to “Yellowstone” and “The Last Cowboy” have been recognized with the prestigious AQHA Spirit Award and induction into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Sheridan’s dedication to the American Quarter Horse has not only shaped his career but has also introduced these magnificent animals to millions of viewers worldwide.
The Stars of the Show: Notable Equine Athletes
The series features several acclaimed American Quarter Horses, showcasing their talent and presence. Reining fans were thrilled in Season 1, Episode 5, with the appearance of Lil Joe Cash, an AQHA reining world champion and National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Futurity champion. Co-owned by Lil Joe Cash Inc., this 2008 sorrel stallion is by Nu Chex To Cash and out of the AQHA Superhorse RS Lilly Starlight. He was expertly handled by NRHA $5 million rider and trainer Andrea Fappani.
The anticipation is high for the inclusion of Metallic Cat in upcoming seasons. Bobby Patton, owner of Metallic Cat, secured the rights for the stallion to be written into the “Yellowstone” script. This acquisition, made at the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Futurity, raised a remarkable $165,000 for 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.
Adding to the equine roster is Custom Made Gun, a co-champion of The Run for a Million and a World Equestrian Games medalist. This 2011 palomino stallion, owned by Maria Cecilia Fiorucci of Italy, is by Colonels Smoking Gun (affectionately known as “Gunner”) and out of the Hollywood Dun It daughter Custom Made Dunit. Custom Made Gun made a notable appearance in Season 1, Episode 5.
Behind the Scenes: Cowboy Camp and Actor Training
To ensure authenticity on screen, Taylor Sheridan implemented an immersive “cowboy camp” experience for the actors. Coached by Sheridan’s cutting horse trainer, Jake Ream, this intensive four-day program in the Utah mountains involved camping, herding sheep, and caring for both themselves and the horses. These rigorous sessions, with extensive saddle time, significantly enhanced the actors’ on-screen riding abilities. Jefferson White, who portrays Jimmy Hurdstrom, noted that “cowboy camp” was instrumental in acquainting him with horses and fostering his character’s riding development throughout the series.
Interestingly, actress Kelly Reilly, who plays the horse-averse Beth Dutton, is a passionate horsewoman with extensive riding experience since childhood. While her character harbors a deep-seated aversion to horses due to a childhood accident, Reilly has always dreamed of starring in a Western. To prepare for scenes where Beth returns to the saddle, Reilly collaborated with reining trainer Tom Foran and Sled and Tamara Reynolds of Gentle Jungle, a renowned animal wrangling business, to refine her western riding skills.
The Legendary Four Sixes Ranch Joins the “Yellowstone” Universe
The iconic Four Sixes Ranch, a recipient of the AQHA Best Remuda Award, is set to become a significant element in the “Yellowstone” storyline. Filming for upcoming seasons has taken place at the Guthrie, Texas ranch, and a dedicated spinoff series, aptly titled “6666,” will also be filmed there. This new series promises to delve into the ranch’s rich history and its enduring mission to breed the finest horses and livestock, embodying a place where true cowboys are forged. Reports indicate that the Four Sixes Ranch has been acquired by the Yellowstone Creators Group, further cementing its connection to the show’s universe.
“Yellowstone” Season 4 premiered on Sunday, November 7, leaving audiences eager to discover the fates of the Dutton family and to witness more captivating scenes featuring the American Quarter Horses that Taylor Sheridan has so skillfully showcased. The series continues to highlight the profound bond between humans and horses, set against the stunning backdrop of the American West.
