Critics have expressed mixed views about "Yellowstone" as the show has progressed citing a loss of direction and plot development issues with show's narrative progression. Some critics claim creator Taylor Sheridan ruined season five by including a more prominent role for his character Travis Wheatley alongside frivolous plots. However Taylor Sheridan during a 2023 interview with The Hollywood Reporter explained the design and function of the television show stating “it has no plot really." The popular neo-Western drama often polarizes individuals as they interpret themes and plot choices on the program.
Taylor Sheridan Defends "Yellowstone" Approach: Character Development Over Traditional Plot Structures
Taylor Sheridan detailed his approach for “Yellowstone” and defended his writing stating the main theme is simply about land disputes: “Don't take my land I want your land.” Sheridan then mentions his use of character explorations in different situations that allows to him address different points of view through his particular creative perspective. Sheridan also considers this defiant within the framework of other traditional television formats as he presents his creative design with this series . Sheridan feels "Yellowstone" was specifically created for critics to dislike noting that many were also surprised at its immense success with public. Taylor Sheridan intentionally created a show that challenges the traditional ways of Hollywood making it something that wouldn't appeal to everyone.
Sheridan Explains His Preference for Character-Driven Plots And His Reluctance To Use Writers Rooms
While the show "Yellowstone" received criticism due to limited plots Taylor Sheridan confirmed the show was created to be primarily focused on people with more of an attention given towards relationships in each individual scene in the program instead of using traditional narrative driven structures. Sheridan is specifically not in favor of passing on writing duties to writers’ rooms often to allow him more creative control over all storytelling choices. Writers he explains are inherently interested in taking ownership of written projects and often introduce concepts that may deviate from his own creative intentions for storytelling in television. He stated to Hollywood Reporter in a previous interview to discuss some behind the scenes information about how "Yellowstone" was written for better context and transparency into his approach.
Fan Loyalty And Franchise Growth Indicate 'Yellowstone' Success Despite Critical Acclaim
"Yellowstone's" immense popularity proves that it continues to maintain an impressive fan base despite multiple negative critic opinions on the show and how it has evolved. Taylor Sheridan's fans consider the show high in quality of the Western genre of television . The expanding “Yellowstone” franchise continues development with 1923 Season 2 and The Madison on their way along with 6666 and Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser’s spinoff creating much excitement and anticipation from dedicated viewers. These announcements of more spinoff series and additional shows signal future plans for further series and plot points within existing and future shows across Yellowstone franchise.