What happened to Carter in Yellowstone? Character fate explored

Yellowstone, a neo-Western drama series created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, first aired on Paramount Network on June 20, 2018, and continued till December 15, 2024. The show follows the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch and its conflicts with neighboring territories.

The series centers on the Dutton family's struggle to protect their massive ranch from land developers, the Broken Rock Indian Reservation, and Yellowstone National Park.

One of the show's most compelling arcs is Carter's story, a troubled teen who finds his place within the family. By the series finale, he moves in with Beth and Rip at their new ranch in Dillon, solidifying his role as part of their family and finding a sense of belonging. In the series, Carter is played by Finn Little.

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Carter's journey in Yellowstone

Carter is a major character who enters Yellowstone in season 4, providing a fresh perspective on the show's complex relationships. His journey explores themes of strength, redemption, and the search for belonging. Initially, he is shown as a troubled teen with a hard past.

His story starts when Beth Dutton meets him at a hospital where his dying father, a heroin addict, is being treated. It is evident that Carter doesn't like his father as he deals with the harsh reality of losing his only family member.

After his father's death, Carter tries to rob a gas station out of desperation but is stopped by Sheriff Donnie Haskell. Following this incident, Beth takes him under her wing, even though she isn't ready to be a mother due to her past traumas.

Beth's partner, Rip Wheeler, is initially opposed to Carter joining them. As a result, they assign him menial tasks on the ranch and make him sleep in the tool shed at first. However, as time passes, Rip comes to respect Carter for his willingness to change and learn.

Carter's role at the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch changes as he learns more about how things work on the ranch. He quickly learns important skills by working with the other ranch hands and showing what he's worth.

Although he is not officially adopted, Beth and Rip treat him like a child; Beth is strict yet caring, while Rip is firm but helpful. Carter comes to see Beth as a mother figure, despite her initial insistence that she isn't his "Mama."

A significant turning point occurs in season 5 when a tragic accident changes Carter's fate. While working in the stalls, he accidentally scares a horse, leading to the death of Colby Mayfield, who sacrifices himself to save Carter. This event has a big impact on Carter, making him feel even more guilty and sad, especially since John Dutton just died.

When Carter confides in Beth that he blames himself for Colby's death, she comforts him and reminds him of his place in their family.

By the end of the season, Carter's part changes for the better. He moves with Beth and Rip to a new ranch in Dillon after they sell the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. Although he becomes an official ranch hand, their decision to bring him along signifies that he is now part of their family.

While many characters face tragic endings, Carter's story ends on a hopeful note. It shows how he changed from a lost boy to a young man who feels like he has a purpose and a place in the world.

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Finn Little as Carter

Finn Little brings depth to Carter's role in Yellowstone. The Australian actor balances toughness and vulnerability, making Carter's journey relatable. Little's other work includes Harrow, Tidelands, and Taylor Sheridan's Those Who Wish Me Dead.

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Yellowstone is available to stream on Peacock.