The second season of Taylor Sheridan’s “1923” has sparked intense debate, largely due to the disturbing relationship between Lindy and Donald Whitfield.

Madison Elise Rogers, who portrays Lindy, recently addressed the backlash and offered insight into why this controversial plotline might be more nuanced than it appears.

Lindy, an escort in the employ of the ruthless Donald (played by Timothy Dalton), is introduced as a woman forced into violence against her own friend, Christy.

Earlier episodes showed Donald’s twisted pleasure in pitting women against each other, using his wealth and power to manipulate and control. In season 2, things escalate: Lindy appears to take control over Christy, but it’s clear she’s still trapped in Donald’s toxic web.

In a recent interview, Rogers defended the depiction of Lindy and Donald’s relationship, arguing that it reflects a grim reality for many women.

“Some women may have experienced a situation similar to Lindy’s, where a man in authority manipulates and controls them,” Rogers explained. “Lindy may feel supported, but she’s also focused on survival and has been brainwashed by Donald.”

Rogers acknowledges the unsettling nature of the storyline, but insists it’s rooted in realism. “Many women, in my opinion, can identify with being in a relationship with a strong, dangerous man.

That’s frightening, but it’s also realistic. If Whitfield were real, I believe this would actually happen,” she said. “It’s harsh, but it portrays the real abuse of authority, using women as collateral.”

Lindy, according to Rogers, is both favored and trapped. “She’s in this house with a very dangerous, powerful, wealthy man. He gives her a sense of acceptance, so she feels favored by him. But at the same time, she’s just trying to survive. Even if she’s fully brainwashed, she’s trying to make the best of a terrible situation.”

Season 2 shows Lindy changing, especially in how she responds to Donald’s cruelty. She was emotionally and physically manipulated to please him, and in the season 1 finale, Donald told her that power leads to happiness—while forcing her to hurt Christy.

In the opening episode of season 2, Lindy is still at Donald’s house, their relationship deepening as he discusses his upcoming trial with her. Yet, the abusive dynamic between Donald, Lindy, and Christy continues.

In one shocking scene, Lindy pulls a scarred and nude Christy from a closet, threatening her with further punishment if she disobeys.

Given this development, it’s likely that something tragic is looming for Christy. The evolving power dynamics between Lindy, Donald, and Christy raise questions about whether Lindy can ever break free, or if she will continue to be a pawn in Donald’s cruel games.

Rogers’ comments about survival and being influenced by Donald suggest Lindy is acting out of self-preservation, while Christy’s fate grows increasingly uncertain.

Ultimately, while the storyline is deeply uncomfortable, Rogers believes it’s an honest portrayal of how abusers use power to control and traumatize. The realism, she argues, may help viewers understand the complexity of such relationships—and why escaping them is so difficult. As “1923” continues, all eyes will be on Lindy, Donald, and Christy to see how this controversial and challenging story unfolds.