The critically acclaimed series “Yellowstone,” set against the stunning backdrop of Montana, captivates audiences not only with its compelling drama and breathtaking landscapes but also with its authentic portrayal of American Quarter Horses. As the show heads into its fourth season, fans have a deep appreciation for the equine stars that share the screen with beloved characters like Rip, Beth, and John Dutton. This article delves into the fascinating facts and behind-the-scenes insights into the American Quarter Horses that play such a significant role in “Yellowstone.”
The Visionary Behind “Yellowstone” and its Equine Stars
At the heart of “Yellowstone” is its writer, director, and producer, Taylor Sheridan, an AQHA life member with a profound passion for reining and cutting competitions. Sheridan’s personal involvement in these equestrian sports directly influences the show’s narrative, leading him to incorporate both the disciplines and the athletes who excel in them. His dedication to the American Quarter Horse world was recognized with the prestigious AQHA Spirit Award in 2019 and an induction into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Sheridan’s deep connection to these horses has undeniably brought the American Quarter Horse into the spotlight for millions of viewers worldwide. He trains horses for Yellowstone, ensuring their authenticity on screen.
Equine Talent Featured on “Yellowstone”
The show has consistently featured remarkable American Quarter Horses, often ridden by renowned professionals in the reining and cutting circuits.
Lil Joe Cash: A Reining Champion on Screen
Season 1, Episode 5, introduced viewers to Lil Joe Cash, an AQHA reining world champion and National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Futurity champion. He appeared alongside NRHA $5 million rider and trainer Andrea Fappani. Lil Joe Cash, a 2008 sorrel stallion, is a testament to the quality of horses bred for competitive reining.
Metallic Cat: A Future Star’s Casting Rights
The anticipation for Metallic Cat’s role in upcoming seasons was palpable. Bobby Patton, the owner of this leading sire of cutting and reined cow horses, acquired the rights for his horse to be written into the “Yellowstone” script for a significant sum of $165,000 at a gala during the National Cutting Horse Association Futurity. This hefty bid directly benefited the NCHA Charities Foundation.
Custom Made Gun: From World Stage to Television
Custom Made Gun, a co-champion of The Run for a Million and a World Equestrian Games medalist, also made an appearance in Season 1, Episode 5. This 2011 palomino stallion, owned by Maria Cecilia Fiorucci, showcased his exceptional talent under riders like NRHA’s youngest $1 million rider and trainer, Cade McCutcheon, and his grandfather, NRHA $3 million rider and trainer Tim McQuay. Cade and Custom Made Gun were instrumental in securing the Team USA gold medal in reining at the 2018 World Equestrian Games.
Other Notable Equine Performers
Beyond these prominent figures, “Yellowstone” has featured other talented horses:
- Matt Mills: An NRHA professional trainer, Matt Mills, appeared in Season 2, Episode 5, participating in a reining competition. Mills also shared his expertise on improving reining circle scores in an AQHA article. Matt Mills offers reining tips.
- Walla Walla Starbuck: Owned by Taylor Sheridan, this 2012 red dun stallion, with over $50,000 in NRHA earnings, was ridden by reining trainer Tom Foran in Season 1.
- Spookernickerin: An NRHA money-earning sorrel gelding owned by Jules Stewart.
- Dun It Chexinic: A 2007 bay gelding with significant reining earnings, owned and shown by Taylor Sheridan himself.
“Cowboy Camp”: Training the Actors for Authenticity
To ensure the actors’ on-screen riding was authentic, Taylor Sheridan sent them to a rigorous “cowboy camp.” Coached by his cutting horse trainer, Jake Ream, this intensive four-day experience in the Utah mountains involved camping, herding sheep, and essential horse care. The extensive saddle time provided the actors with the necessary skills to convincingly portray their characters’ interactions with horses, transforming newcomers like Jefferson White (Jimmy Hurdstrom) into capable riders.
Beth Dutton’s Unexpected Connection to Horses
While the character Beth Dutton is famously known for her aversion to horses due to a past trauma, actress Kelly Reilly, who plays Beth, has a lifelong passion for riding. Having grown up with English riding, Reilly collaborated with reining trainer Tom Foran and the experienced animal wrangling business Gentle Jungle to perfect her western riding for scenes later in the series. Her personal dream of being in a Western further enhanced her performance.
The Legendary Four Sixes Ranch Joins “Yellowstone”
The esteemed Four Sixes Ranch, a recipient of the AQHA Best Remuda Award, has become an integral part of the “Yellowstone” storyline. Scenes filmed at this historic ranch in Guthrie, Texas, are featured in upcoming seasons. Furthermore, a “Yellowstone” spinoff, aptly titled “6666,” will be filmed at the ranch, highlighting its deep history and unwavering mission to breed the finest horses and livestock. Reports indicate that the Four Sixes Ranch has been purchased by the Yellowstone Creators Group, signifying a strong future for this iconic Western institution.
As Season 4 of “Yellowstone” premieres, viewers can eagerly anticipate more dramatic storylines and, of course, the continued presence of the magnificent American Quarter Horses that Taylor Sheridan has so skillfully showcased. The show’s commitment to authenticity and its deep respect for the Western lifestyle and the American Quarter Horse promise another season of compelling television.
