‘Yellowstone’ Gaslighted Us: 5 Reasons Why John Dutton Is A Walking Red Flag
Morally gray characters are great, but what about a protagonist who is secretly a bad guy? Here are five reasons why John Dutton from Yellowstone is actually the villain.
The best shows of our generation have learned to avoid creating clear-cut heroes and villains. Such characters are neither realistic nor interesting to follow. Yellowstone, for example, is a show that keeps us hooked because of its complex characters. But when you look deeper, you'll notice that John Dutton is far from just a “flawed protagonist.” He's essentially the villain of his own story, and this is 5 reasons why.
Reason #1: Violence Is His Go-To Solution
We all get defensive about what's ours, but John takes it to a whole other level. Need a problem solved? John's answer is usually brute force. Dutton has literally been involved in covering up murders, all while wearing that “I'm just protecting what's mine” expression that somehow makes viewers nod along.
Reason #2: His Stubborn Attitude Is Self-Destructive
His “my way or the highway” approach is literally bankrupting his family. The man refuses solid advice from everyone around him (even the people he supposedly trusts). At times, it really seems that this guy would rather watch his entire legacy crumble than admit his outdated methods aren't working anymore. And he's dragging everyone else down with him.
Reason #3: He's Too Stuck in the Past
While everyone else is evolving with modern Montana, John is clinging to his outdated ranching ways. He sees change as the enemy rather than an opportunity. The world keeps turning, but John's determined to stay right where he is.
Reason #4: The “Family First” Is Actually BS
For someone who always talks about protecting his family, he sure does a terrible job of it. His son died over a cattle dispute. His grandson was kidnapped and his children are almost always in some kind of danger.
Reason #5: His Moral Code Is Super Convenient
Have you noticed how John's principles magically bend whenever it benefits him? He is a MASSIVE hypocrite. He'll give these dramatic speeches about doing what's right, then turn around and do a completely outrageous thing.
