1923 is set against the backdrop of a turbulent period in history, revolving around the Dutton family and their struggles to maintain control of the Yellowstone ranch. It focuses on the lives of Jacob Dutton (Harrison Ford) and his wife, Cara (Helen Mirren), along with their family members as they face a range of challenges in the early 20th century.
The first season explored themes of family, land ownership, survival, and loyalty, combining historical events with personal and political drama. The Duttons' resilience and complex relationships are key drivers of the show’s narrative, setting the stage for more conflicts and developments in future seasons.
At the end of season 1, Spencer and his new wife Alex faced off against her former fiancé while on board a ship. The man challenges the muscular Dutton to a duel, prompting Spencer to toss him overboard. Spencer was promptly removed from the vessel, while Alex was taken home to England. I'm looking forward to seeing the pair make their way back to each other this season, as well as seeing them both make it home to the ranch before anything else happens to Jacob and Cara.
Jacob, begrudgingly heading into town for Banner Creighton's trial, comes face to face with a lion on his front porch. He feels a bit of sympathy for the creature, understanding it's simply trying to survive the winter, but ultimately drives it away.
We catch up with Banner, the former sheep herder, as he's getting ready for his day in court. His wife cautions him about the trouble he's bringing on by teaming up with Donald Whitfield, the villainous miner who's trying to grab Dutton’s land. Banner brushes it off, reminding her of the money and land he’ll get from working with Whitfield. He justifies it all by saying it'll secure a better future for their young son.
Spencer continues to get into fights on his new ship, as he stands up for a young man who is being abused by an older, larger one. The ship's captain intervenes and shoots the abuser. The young man, now knowing how well Spencer can fight, realises they could make the money Spencer needs to get himself home.
Meanwhile, Alex has some help to get her on a ship to New York. Her friend warns her it might be a bit rough as she won't be going first class this time. Without Spencer around to save her, I'm nervous for her.
As the episode wraps up, we check in with Jacob again. He’s made it to town and meets up with his buddy, Sheriff McDowell, at a speakeasy. The two knock back some whiskey and swap stories about the challenges ahead with Whitfield.
But Jacob's mind is elsewhere, worried about his wife, whom he had to leave behind at the ranch in the middle of winter. Turns out, his concerns are spot on. While Cara’s making breakfast, she hears something outside. The lion that ran off earlier has returned, staring down Elizabeth, who excitedly ran outside to enjoy the rare sunshine. Cara is forced to shoot the lion before it attacks Elizabeth, which feels like an ominous final scene for the season ahead.
