The Yellowstone Official Podcast – Episode: "A House Divided - Luke Grimes & Wes Bentley" Release Date: December 9, 2021
Host/Authors: iHeartPodcasts and Paramount Network

Introduction

The episode kicks off with Jefferson White (also known as Jimmy on the Dutton Ranch) warmly welcoming listeners to "The Yellowstone Official Podcast." Recorded from the luxurious Wynn Las Vegas, Jefferson expresses his awe at the venue and his gratitude for being part of the Yellowstone community. He emphasizes the podcast’s mission to delve deep into the expanding universe of Yellowstone by featuring cast members, crew, and superfans to recap episodes and discuss the latest developments.

Jefferson White [00:07]:
“Ever wonder what life is really like on Dutton Ranch? Saddle up and join co-hosts Jefferson White ('Jimmy') and Jen Landon ('Teeter')...”

Interview with Luke Grimes and Wes Bentley

Journey to Yellowstone

Jefferson White introduces the episode's first guest, Luke Grimes, who portrays Casey Dutton. Shortly after, Wes Bentley (Jamie Dutton) joins the conversation, revealing personal insights into their journeys leading up to Yellowstone.

Jefferson White [00:31]:
“...probably that I'm new to a lot of this and believe it or not, this is also actually my first time.”

Luke Grimes shares his path to acting, moving from Ohio to New York at 18, attending acting school, and eventually relocating to LA to pursue his dream. Wes Bentley adds his own background, highlighting his move from Ohio to New York, then LA, and how he was discovered by Taylor Sheridan, leading to his role on Yellowstone.

Wes Bentley [03:22]:
“I was one of those weird kids who always wanted to be an actor and just loved movies... it was the greatest joy of my life.”

Preparing for Yellowstone

The hosts delve into the rigorous preparation both actors undertook to embody their characters authentically. Wes Bentley discusses his initial lack of horse-riding experience and the intensive training regimen he followed, including daily riding, roping, and cowboy-specific skills to minimize reliance on stunt doubles.

Wes Bentley [03:36]:
“Very little horse experience before Yellowstone... We ride like real horses who don't tend to sit still as much.”

He recounts memorable scenes, such as roping a driver from a truck and wrangling mustangs, emphasizing Taylor Sheridan's commitment to authenticity by encouraging actors to perform their stunts whenever possible.

Wes Bentley [05:04]:
“...Taylor likes to use them [stunt doubles] as little as possible. So he wanted us to be as prepared as we could because he loves authenticity...”

The Montana Experience and Its Impact

Wes Bentley highlights the profound impact of Montana's landscapes on the show, describing it as a character in itself. He speaks to the romanticism of the West and how filming in this environment allows both actors and viewers to immerse themselves in the struggle to protect what they love.

Wes Bentley [07:27]:
“Montana is probably the biggest character in our show. It's such a part of the show...”

Family Dynamics and On-Set Relationships

The discussion shifts to the intricate family dynamics portrayed in Yellowstone. Wes Bentley expresses deep appreciation for working with the cast and crew, emphasizing the familial atmosphere on set. He touches on his anxiety about the show's future, given the strong bonds formed over four years.

Wes Bentley [08:49]:
“I feel so lucky to go to work with these fantastic actors... it's just a good group.”

Luke Grimes and Wes Bentley explore the themes of family loyalty, responsibility, and the often-painful decisions characters must make. They discuss how their long-term collaboration fosters a natural chemistry that enhances the show's authenticity.

Wes Bentley [10:31]:
“Everyone seems to really care about this job equally... it's a joy to work with these people.”

Character Insights: Jamie Dutton

Wes Bentley as Jamie Dutton

Transitioning to a more focused discussion, Kelly Reilly joins to interview Wes Bentley about his portrayal of Jamie Dutton, one of television's most complex characters. Wes Bentley delves into the psychological depth of Jamie, exploring his internal conflicts between duty and personal desires.

Wes Bentley [17:34]:
“I think Jamie represents the beating heart of this crazy world and trying to do what's right by his own family...”

He reflects on Jamie's perpetual balancing act, caught between his father John Dutton and his brother Jamie's antagonistic relationship with Beth. Wes emphasizes that Jamie's actions, though often violent, stem from a place of deep-seated love and responsibility.

Wes Bentley [17:34]:
“Jamie is someone who suppresses all of his impulses...”

Acting Challenges and Audience Perception

Kelly Reilly probes into the challenges of portraying a character who oscillates between likability and antagonism. Wes Bentley discusses his approach to avoiding caricature, focusing instead on portraying Jamie's perspective authentically without preconceived judgments.

Wes Bentley [38:40]:
“My first rule as an actor was to not judge your character...”

He shares how Jamie's complexities, such as his strategic mind and emotional suppression, contribute to audiences viewing him as both a villain and a sympathetic figure, a testament to Taylor Sheridan's writing excellence.

Wes Bentley [42:50]:
“It's nobody thinking about you at all while I'm trying to portray this human being.”

Exploring Jamie’s Motivations and Relationships

Kelly Reilly further explores Jamie's motivations, particularly his struggle with loyalty and desire for personal fulfillment. Wes Bentley articulates how Jamie's sense of duty often conflicts with his personal aspirations, leading to explosive emotional moments that highlight his internal turmoil.

Wes Bentley [30:41]:
“Jamie sees the moves ahead. He's four or five moves ahead...”

The conversation touches upon Jamie's strained relationships within the Dutton family, especially his fraught interactions with Beth and the revelation of his biological father, Garrett, adding layers to his character's complexity.

Wes Bentley [36:23]:
“Jamie didn't follow his dream... that's a huge break between us.”

Conclusion

The episode concludes with heartfelt exchanges between Kelly Reilly, Luke Grimes, and Wes Bentley, celebrating their camaraderie and the enriching experience of working together on Yellowstone. They express anticipation for future episodes and the continuing evolution of their characters within the show's expansive narrative.

Jefferson White [44:47]:
“I feel so, so lucky for the opportunity to talk to the Dutton boys today...”

Key Takeaways

• Authentic Preparation: Both Luke Grimes and Wes Bentley underwent extensive training to bring authenticity to their roles, particularly in horse riding and cowboy skills.

• Montana as a Character: The natural landscapes of Montana play a pivotal role in shaping the show's narrative, acting as a silent character that influences the story's emotional and physical terrains.

• Complex Family Dynamics: Yellowstone's strength lies in its intricate portrayal of family loyalty, duty, and the personal sacrifices characters must make, exemplified through the Dutton family's interactions.

• Depth of Jamie Dutton: Wes Bentley’s portrayal of Jamie Dutton offers a nuanced look into a character torn between familial duty and personal desires, making him both a sympathetic and antagonistic figure.

Notable Quotes

• Jefferson White [00:07]:
  “Ever wonder what life is really like on Dutton Ranch? Saddle up and join co-hosts Jefferson White ('Jimmy') and Jen Landon ('Teeter')...”

• Wes Bentley [03:36]:
  “Very little horse experience before Yellowstone... We ride like real horses who don't tend to sit still as much.”

• Wes Bentley [17:34]:
  “Jamie is someone who suppresses all of his impulses...”

• Wes Bentley [38:40]:
  “My first rule as an actor was to not judge your character...”

Closing Remarks

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and tune into future episodes for more in-depth conversations with other key figures from Yellowstone, including Beth, Rip, Kelly Reilly, and Cole Hauser. The podcast promises to continue offering behind-the-scenes insights and engaging discussions that expand the rich tapestry of the Yellowstone universe.

Jefferson White [44:52]:
“Make sure to subscribe and tune in to the Official Yellowstone Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, wherever you get your podcasts...”

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