The world of Yellowstone has never been kind to its characters, and Season 5 was a pretty awful one. In Episode 12, we got a shocker — this time a death that most fans didn’t see coming. While we’ve seen violent, gruesome deaths before, this one was different. Let’s find out what happened and why it was the biggest disappointment of the season.
Colby’s Horrible Death
Colby, played by Denim Richards, has been a fan favorite since the beginning of the season. Colby, a loyal and dedicated ranch hand, is always there to support his friends in the ranch. Unfortunately, episode 12 has ended.
How Colby Died While helping Carter (Finn Little) escape from a dangerous ranch, Colby steps in to train a mischievous horse. As Carter crawls to safety, the horse unexpectedly kicks Colby, killing him instantly.
It’s a short, but heartfelt scene. Unlike the other deaths on the list, Colby’s isn’t tied to violent fights or family feuds – it’s a reminder of the dangers of volunteer work.
Why Colby’s death was so tragic
It was unexpected and serendipitous – Unlike the deaths of John Dutton and Sarah Atwood earlier this season, Colby’s death was not part of a larger conspiracy. There was no malice, no deliberate attack—just a tragic accident in the ordinary course of business. It made his death seem more real and painful.
Good character fades quickly – Kirby was more than just a rough guy. Throughout the season, we’ve been drawn to his close friendships, especially with Ryan, and his romantic relationship with Tite. Losing him was like losing a member of the Yellowstone family.
Effects on Other Characters – The consequences of Kirby’s death were equally devastating. It was so exciting to see the reactions of his girlfriend Teeter and his best friend Ryan. Painful moments heightened their grief.
The Innocence of the Spider – What makes this death remarkable is its simplicity. There’s no drama or violent climax – just an ordinary day on a sad farm. This highlights the real danger to farmers’ lives and the accident could have had catastrophic consequences.
Another big death in Season 5
This season has been filled with loss, but Colby’s death left a heavy heart. Let’s briefly compare this to two other important deaths:
The Death of John Dutton – John’s death was shocking, yet unexpected. With the departure of actor Kevin Costner, many fans saw this coming. His death marks a critical moment for the Dutton family as they face the future of their farm.
The Death of Sarah Atwood – Sarah’s death, on the other hand, was sudden and violent. As an opponent, his defeat didn’t elicit the same emotional response. While shocking, it’s not as significant as Colby’s unexpected death.
The Emotional Cost of Ranch Life – Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan often focused on the harsh realities of ranching. Colby’s death is a stark reminder that danger does not only come from external threats such as conflict or land disputes. Sometimes, the job itself is the biggest threat. This is a story about survival, loyalty and the unpredictable nature of farm life.
What’s next for Yellowstone?
As the season comes to a close, it becomes clear that the challenges facing the Dutton family and their ranching arm are only just beginning. Colby’s death will have long-term effects on those working at the ranch, especially Teeter and Ryan.
Meanwhile, ongoing conflicts with the Stock Market and family tensions mean there’s plenty more drama to come. With only a few episodes left, fans are clamoring for emotional moments and twists.
Final Thoughts
Colby’s death on Yellowstone Season 5 Episode 12 was the saddest and most heartbreaking episode of the season. It reminded us that life on a ranch is not always predictable and often unforgiving. This loss was a tough pill to swallow for fans, but it’s a testament to the show’s ability to keep us hooked.
As we prepare for the final season, one thing is for sure: Yellowstone continues to deliver powerful stories and unforgettable moments.
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