Introduction

As fans of *Yellowstone* process the emotional rollercoaster of the season 5B finale, actor Gil Birmingham, known for his role as Chief Thomas Rainwater, shares his insights on the show's poignant conclusion and potential future paths in the franchise.

Birmingham's Awareness of the Show's Ending

In an exclusive interview with *The Hollywood Reporter*, Birmingham revealed that he was aware of the show's ending from the beginning. “Taylor [Sheridan] had written the bible for the show in the beginning; he knew how it was going to end,” he stated. Having collaborated with Sheridan on films like *Hell or High Water* and *Wind River*, Birmingham expressed his excitement about joining a series that has captivated audiences as the most-watched Western in television history.

The Finale and Its Significance

The finale, entitled "Life Is a Promise," drew the narrative of the Dutton family to its poignant full-circle moment. It closely tied the current owners, Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes), to their ancestors who first settled the land 141 years ago, reflecting a promise made to return it to Indigenous peoples in seven generations. This promise is fulfilled when the Yellowstone ranch is sold back to Rainwater and his fictional Broken Rock Reservation, marking a significant moment in the series that reinforces the importance of Native storytelling.

Uncertainty of the Series' Future

Fans are left on the edge of their seats, as it remains uncertain whether this episode served as a series finale. Paramount Network and Sheridan have not clarified this, leaving the fate of *Yellowstone* ambiguous. However, the wider *Yellowstone* universe is alive and well, with the spin-off *The Madison* in production and the anticipated return of the prequel series *1923*.

Expanding the Yellowstone Universe

A remarkable announcement has also been made regarding a new prequel set in 1944, creating speculation about the ever-expanding universe. Birmingham elaborated on how Rainwater’s storyline could evolve from here, potentially exploring themes of land stewardship and the contemporary realities faced by Native tribes today.

The Emotional Depth of the Finale

In discussing the finale's emotional depth, Birmingham reflected on the mixed reactions from fans, embracing the complexity of the characters portrayed in the series. “Taylor has created some complicated and controversial characters on the show, so it just goes with the land,” he noted, suggesting that the series successfully addresses societal issues while also portraying Indigenous perspectives with sensitivity and authenticity.

Sheridan's Commitment to Authenticity

Birmingham emphasized that Sheridan’s commitment to portraying Indigenous communities is significant. He shared that Sheridan had spent years with the Lakota Nation, positioning himself as an ally who strives for authenticity in his narratives. “He’s provided characters who have their own agency and intelligence. We are not just artifacts of the past,” Birmingham stated, identifying the progress made in Native representation in media.

Rainwater's Arc and Spiritual Significance

Reflecting on his character Rainwater's arc in the finale, Birmingham noted the spiritual significance of the land deal, emphasizing the importance of unity and respect. His portrayal encapsulated a moment of triumph for his character and the Indigenous community, aligning with the show’s theme of reclaiming heritage.

Optimism for Future Storytelling

Looking toward the future, Birmingham expressed optimism about continuing Rainwater's journey. He noted that the prospect of intertwining Native storytelling with contemporary settings could lead to compelling narratives. “I think it could serve as a connection to nature and educate people about Native culture, beyond the stereotypes,” he asserted.

Conclusion

As fans await news on the direction of both the flagship series and its spin-offs, Birmingham's reflections remind audiences of the profound impact narratives about land, identity, and community can have in contemporary storytelling. With the continued momentum of the *Yellowstone* franchise and the focus on authentic representation, Birmingham's insights not only celebrate the success of the series but also highlight the vital ongoing exploration of Native narratives in the entertainment industry.