As the highly anticipated Season 4 of “Yellowstone” prepares to debut, fans are eager to see how the compelling storylines will unfold. Whether drawn by the dramatic narratives, the stunning Montana scenery, the charismatic characters like Rip, or the spectacular American Quarter Horses that grace the screen, “Yellowstone” consistently captivates its audience. This season promises even more insights into the integral role these magnificent animals play in the series.
We’ve compiled fascinating facts about the show and the American Quarter Horses featured, offering a closer look at their significance and the talent behind them. Some of your favorite characters, such as Rip, Beth, Jimmy, and John Dutton, are complemented by the presence of skilled reiners and cutters, including the horses played by Jake Ream Cutting Horses. These equine stars are more than just set dressing; they are integral to the show’s authenticity and appeal.
Fact 1: Taylor Sheridan’s Vision and Passion
The driving force behind “Yellowstone,” writer, director, and producer Taylor Sheridan, is a life member of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). His deep involvement in reining and cutting competitions directly influences the show’s authentic portrayal of these equestrian sports and the athletes involved. Sheridan’s dedication to the Western lifestyle and the American Quarter Horse has been widely recognized. He was honored with the AQHA Spirit Award during the 2019 AQHA World Championship Show and inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame in March of the same year. The AQHA Spirit Award celebrates individuals who exceptionally embody the Western lifestyle and the heritage of the American Quarter Horse. Sheridan’s profound passion for these horses has not only shaped his career in acting and directing but has also showcased American Quarter Horses to a global audience on television screens worldwide.
Caption: “Yellowstone” writer, director, and producer Taylor Sheridan is seen aboard Pale Black Gun, accompanied by his reining trainer, Tom Foran. (Credit: Photo courtesy of Tom Foran)
Fact 2: Lil Joe Cash – A Reining Champion on Screen
Reining enthusiasts 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. Lil Joe Cash, owned by Lil Joe Cash Inc., is a 2008 sorrel stallion, a descendant of Nu Chex To Cash and the AQHA Superhorse RS Lilly Starlight.
Caption: Lil Joe Cash, with AQHA Professional Horseman Andrea Fappani in the saddle, secured the 2012 AQHA junior reining world championship. (Credit: Journal)
Fact 3: Metallic Cat’s Anticipated Role
The equine industry eagerly awaits the expanded role of the renowned stallion Metallic Cat in future seasons of “Yellowstone.” Bobby Patton, Metallic Cat’s owner, successfully acquired the rights for his horse to be written into the show’s script. Patton secured these exclusive casting rights at a gala during the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Futurity in December. The substantial winning bid of $165,000 was allocated to benefit the NCHA Charities Foundation. Metallic Cat boasts an impressive pedigree, having been an NCHA Futurity champion and NCHA Horse of the Year, and has since become a leading sire for cutting and reined cow horses.
Red roan stallion Metallic Cat*Caption: The red roan stallion Metallic Cat, a leading sire of cutting and reined cow horses in 2019. (Credit: Photo courtesy of NRCHA)*
Fact 4: Custom Made Gun’s Esteemed Performance
Custom Made Gun, a co-champion of The Run for a Million and a medalist at the World Equestrian Games, also made a notable appearance in Season 1, Episode 5. Owned by Maria Cecilia Fiorucci from Italy, this 2011 palomino stallion is sired by Colonels Smoking Gun, popularly known as “Gunner,” and out of the mare Custom Made Dunit, a daughter of Hollywood Dun It.
Cade McCutcheon performs a sliding stop on palomino stallion Custom Made Gun at the 2018 World Equestrian Games*Caption: Cade McCutcheon executing a sliding stop on the palomino stallion Custom Made Gun during the 2018 World Equestrian Games. Cade and Custom Made Gun were instrumental in securing the gold medal for Team USA in reining. (Photo by @Sportfot)*
Fact 5: The McCutcheon Family’s Involvement
While Custom Made Gun achieved significant success in the show arena under the guidance of Cade McCutcheon, NRHA’s youngest $1 million rider and trainer, it was Cade’s grandfather, NRHA $3 million rider and trainer Tim McQuay, who rode Custom Made Gun in Season 1. Furthermore, Cade appeared alongside his parents, NRHA $1 million rider and trainer Tom McCutcheon and NRHA $2 million non-pro rider Mandy McCutcheon, in Season 2, Episode 5, showcasing the family’s deep ties to the reining world.
Fact 6: Matt Mills’ Cameo
NRHA professional trainer Matt Mills also featured in Season 2, Episode 5, participating in a reining competition that included the McCutcheons, Travis Wheatley (portrayed by Taylor Sheridan), and Yellowstone ranch hand Jimmy Hurdstrom. Mills has also appeared in the Paramount Network show “The Last Cowboy,” and in an article, he shares valuable tips to improve reining circle scores.
Caption: Matt Mills, who appeared in both “Yellowstone” and “The Last Cowboy,” offers advice on enhancing reining circle performance. (Credit: Shane Rux Photography for AQHA)
Fact 7: Walla Walla Starbuck’s Presence
Walla Walla Starbuck, a 2012 red dun stallion with over $50,000 in NRHA earnings, is ridden by reining trainer Tom Foran in Season 1, Episode 5. Owned by Taylor Sheridan, this impressive horse adds to the show’s authentic equestrian representation.
Fact 8: Other Notable Equine Stars
The series also features Spookernickerin, an NRHA money-earning sorrel gelding owned by Jules Stewart. Additionally, Dun It Chexinic, a 2007 bay gelding with over $32,000 earned in reining competitions, is both owned and shown by Taylor Sheridan, further highlighting his personal connection to these talented animals.
Fact 9: “Cowboy Camp” – Immersing Actors in the Western Lifestyle
To ensure authenticity, Taylor Sheridan subjected 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 complete self-sufficiency, including the care of the horses. Extensive time spent in the saddle during this camp significantly contributed to the exceptional on-screen riding performances by each actor.
Caption: Jefferson White, who plays Jimmy Hurdstrom, was new to the equestrian world before “Cowboy camp.” This experience, and his role in the series, allowed him and his character to develop their riding skills together. (Credit: Emerson Miller for Paramount Network)
Fact 10: Kelly Reilly’s Surprising Equestrian Background
Actress Kelly Reilly, who portrays Beth Dutton, is known for her character’s aversion to horses, stemming from a childhood accident. Ironically, Reilly has been riding since a young age and harbors a deep passion for horses. Primarily trained in English riding, she honed her western riding skills for her on-screen appearances with the help of Tom Foran, Taylor’s reining trainer, and Sled and Tamara Reynolds from Gentle Jungle, a renowned animal wrangling business.
Caption: Kelly Reilly, the actress behind Beth Dutton, is a lifelong equestrian with a long-held dream of starring in a Western film. (Credit: Emerson Miller for Paramount Network)
Fact 11: The Iconic Four Sixes Ranch Joins “Yellowstone”
The legendary Four Sixes Ranch, a recipient of the AQHA Best Remuda Award, is now part of the “Yellowstone” narrative. Scenes filmed at this historic ranch in Guthrie, Texas, will be featured in upcoming seasons. Furthermore, a spinoff series, aptly titled “6666,” will also be filmed at the ranch, delving into its rich history and its enduring mission to breed and raise the finest horses and livestock. This ranch is a true crucible where cowboys are forged. Reports indicate that the Four Sixes Ranch has been purchased by the Yellowstone Creators Group, signaling a deeper integration with the show’s universe.
(Credit: Photos of the Four Sixes Ranch are courtesy of Chas. S Middleton and Son)
Yellowstone: Season 4 Premiere
Season 4 of “Yellowstone” is set to premiere on Sunday, November 7. Viewers eagerly await revelations about the fates of Beth, John, and the rest of the Dutton family, alongside the continued showcase of the magnificent American Quarter Horses that Taylor Sheridan has so passionately featured.
