Beulah Jackson, a central character in the Yellowstone spin-off ‘Dutton Ranch,’ survived a serious health scare in Episode 8, titled “Whiskey Limits.” Following her collapse at a party, Beulah was airlifted to the hospital and diagnosed with a heart attack. After undergoing an angioplasty, she is expected to recover and has made requests regarding the future of the 10-Petal Ranch.
Despite Beulah's earlier decision to name Rob-Will as her successor, she urged her sons, including Joaquin, to make peace. However, Joaquin remains resentful and makes a significant move by going to the police to report Rob-Will for the murder of Wes Ayers. He presents the murder weapon to Sheriff Wade, but his attempt to have Rob-Will arrested is thwarted because the location of Wes's body is unknown. Sheriff Wade dismisses Joaquin, indicating his lack of immediate action on the accusation.
Meanwhile, Carter grapples with his emotional state following the events of the season. After an argument with Rip and expressing feelings of abandonment to Beth, Carter leaves the ranch. He is shown seeking employment from Sheriff Wade and using the knowledge of Dwight’s murder as a veiled threat when his request is denied. While Carter indicates a desire to leave, the episode provides no confirmation that he or the actor Finn Little are departing the series.
Investigation into 10-Petal Ranch Operations
Austin, who has been investigating Wes Ayers' disappearance, confronts Jackson security head Miguel. Following this, Austin reveals to Zach and Rip that Wes was looking into the 10-Petal Ranch’s illegal cattle smuggling operation into Mexico. This operation continued even after the border was closed due to screwworm infestation, with the Jacksons allegedly forging documents to bypass inspections. Austin’s allegations suggest the Jackson family is involved in widespread illegal activities, potentially putting other ranches at risk and raising questions about their involvement in the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak affecting Beth and Rip's bull, Bullet.
Joaquin’s Family Connections Revealed
As the episode concludes, Joaquin contacts his father, stating, “Hello dad, I need your help.” This call suggests a significant role for his father, Mariano, who was previously depicted in flashbacks as a key figure at the 10-Petal Ranch when Beulah was younger. The upcoming season finale is expected to further explore Mariano's past and present involvement with Beulah and the ranch.
The episode sets the stage for the season finale with unresolved plotlines including the ongoing illegal operations of the 10-Petal Ranch and the fallout from Joaquin's accusation against his brother.