Episode 6 of “1923” delivers a devastating blow to the Dutton family, with the shocking death of Jack Dutton overshadowed only by the sheer volume of tragedy that unfolds across the episode.

The hour is packed with violence, betrayal, and heartbreak, cementing its place as one of the most intense episodes of the Yellowstone prequel yet.

The episode opens with a reminder from Jacob Dutton about trust—specifically, not to trust the charming livestock agents. This warning hovers over the events to come, especially as Helen Mirren’s Cara Dutton interacts with Clyde, a new recruit to the livestock agency.

Despite her suspicions, Clyde is handed a badge by the sheriff, and Jack Dutton is present for the exchange. Jack, ever vigilant, recognizes Clyde from previous encounters but doesn’t act on his suspicions—a decision that proves fatal.

As the Duttons learn that Spencer is returning by train, Jacob instructs Jack to stay behind and protect the homestead. But Jack, true to his nature, refuses to sit idle. He gathers a few men and heads out, determined to do his part.

On his journey, he crosses paths with Clyde, unaware that Clyde is secretly working for the villainous Donald Whitfield.

In a tense confrontation, Clyde asks Jack about Spencer while holding a gun. Before Jack can react, Clyde shoots him in cold blood.

The moment is sudden, brutal, and reminiscent of Lee Dutton’s death in the original “Yellowstone” series—another good man gunned down while simply trying to do the right thing. Jack’s death is a gut punch, and its full emotional impact will likely be felt in the next episode when his family learns the news.

Meanwhile, the episode is relentless in its pacing and body count. We witness the fallout from Tiona’s escape, Spencer and Alex’s perilous journey, and the tragic fate of Alex’s friends, Paul and Hillary.

Their deaths, succumbing to the freezing cold while trying to help Alex reach Montana, reinforce the cruel reality of the world the Duttons inhabit: even good intentions can lead to heartbreaking ends.

Elsewhere, the episode touches on the horrors of Spencer’s time in World War I, specifically referencing the Argonne Forest—a battle that left deep scars on his psyche. While Spencer’s return is anticipated, Banner and his men are preparing for conflict, setting the stage for an explosive showdown.

The episode also features a long-awaited confrontation between Tiona and Father Renaud, bringing a sense of justice and catharsis to her storyline. The writing and performances in these scenes are powerful, deserving special recognition for their emotional depth and authenticity.

However, not all subplots land well. The scenes involving Donald Whitfield and Lindy are criticized for their gratuitousness and lack of narrative purpose, detracting from the otherwise stellar storytelling.

As the season finale approaches, the stakes have never been higher. With Jack gone, the Dutton family faces new vulnerabilities, and the range war threatens to consume everything they’ve fought for. Episode 6 is a masterclass in tension and tragedy, leaving viewers both shaken and eager for what comes next.