Beth and Rip’s separation will be a key part of the upcomingYellowstoneepisodes. The show generally focuses on the Dutton family and tells the story of the latest generation to take control of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. While they constantly encounter enemies, political threats, and various other challenges, Beth (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) have always been able to find comfort in each other. Tragically,theYellowstoneseason 5, part Aending saw the pair separated, as Rip moved a herd of cattle to Texas. With Kevin Costner leaving the show, that separation could be massively influential.
In an interview withScreen Rant, Reilly expressed the changes that have been spreading across Beth’s life. With Rip gone, she struggles “tremendously” to come to terms with his absence. Though they are still together, Beth is by herself and struggling to manage the ranch after John Dutton III’s exit from the show. Reilly evenhinted at Beth leaving Montana for Texas. Check out her full quote below:
What can we say? It’s hard. I would love to share with you what happened, so then I could tell you what you can expect, but we’re not allowed, and don’t want to spoil anything for the audience. Butthey are very much together.
At the end of the last season, we see Rip and the cowboys take the cattle to Texas, so he’s left, and Beth is stuck at the ranch trying to figure out a way to save it, and it’s sort of falling through her hands, and she’s doesn’t know how to monetize it, or her father won’t even consider it. It’s becoming more and more challenging, andBeth misses Rip tremendously. She may or may not take a trip to Texas to see him, so that’s a bit of fun.
What Rip & Beth’s Separation Means For Yellowstone
The Separation Comes At The Worst Time
Rip and Beth’s complicated relationship has been a crucial part of the show. The pair had their first date in just the second episode, and Rip has spent much of his screen time bonding with his now-wife. Even their wedding came in theYellowstoneseason 4 finale.The two are an inseparable pair, and Rip’s loyalty to the Duttons is so profound that he let them brand him outright. Even moving into his own home was a major step in the Beth and Rip relationship. Rip has a moderating effect on Beth’s worst impulses, though he does still appease her.
Considering that Rip’s absence comes during a major period of upheaval, it is no surprise that Beth would meet him in Texas.
Unfortunately, for all the comfort they have found in each other, the pair will be separated at the worst time.Kevin Costner left the showdue to scheduling issues and salary disputes, making John Dutton III’s exit inevitable. The responsibility for running the ranch will fall to Rip, who is not even in Montana. Without Rip by her side,Beth will likely need to take over some managing responsibilities, which will only escalate her feud with Jamie. Considering that Rip’s absence comes during a major period of upheaval, it is no surprise that Beth would meet him in Texas.
Our Take On Beth’s Separation From Rip
Beth’s Instability Might Grow Even Worse
As tumultuous as their relationship has been, Rip is the only person who has been fully loyal to Beth. Her entire story has been filled with tragedy and instability, which is why she lashes out. Her love for Rip has been a rare bright element of her life, which is why it is disappointing to see the two separated at her most vulnerable point. After likely losing John, they will need each other. Separating them is high drama, which is likely why the tension-minded Sheridan chose to send Rip out of state inYellowstone’s upcoming episodes.
Yellowstone
Cast
Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, as they defend their expansive ranch against external threats from land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first national park. Released on June 14, 2025, this series examines the complex dynamics and violent conflicts surrounding the largest contiguous ranch in the United States.
