The article contains spoilers from Yellowstone season 5, episode 12, “Counting Coup.”
Yellowstonestar Denim Richards opens up about the show’s latest shocking death. It’s inYellowstoneseason 5, episode 12, that Richards tragically takes center stage. His character, Colby Mayfield, steps in to help Carter (Finn Little) after the young man gets cornered by a horse. Even though Colby manages to help Carter, and the horse is ultimately shot, it’s too late for Colby as he gets kicked to death by the horse.
In an interview withScreen Rant’s Grant Hermanns, Richards discusses Colby’s death and what it means for the cowboys he leaves behind. The actor, who has been part of the show since season 1, speaks about the outpouring of support he’s received since the episode. He also talks about the current season being the most nuanced, previewing thatthe characters will respond to Colby’s death with that same level of nuance:
I know the outcome of the show, but for us, it’s about wanting to let the audience be able to ride this wave. I think that they’ve been so tremendously patient with all of us and waiting for the shows. So, I think that, more than anything, anytime that somebody that has been a part of the bunkhouse for so long, of course, it’s going to have its unintended consequences, emotionally and things of that nature. I think that even for what we saw last night, watching the outpouring of love and admiration from the fans, sentiments, what that looks like.
I think this season has been a very nuanced season, and just so much of infusing a lot of the realities of what cowboy life can really be, and the challenges that come with that. With all these things being said, ‘you still gotta load cattle up, you’ve still gotta get on a horse, and that’s real. And I think that’s part of the nuance, and I think that that’s what allows the weight and the gravity for a show like this to happen. So, I would imagine a little bit more of that, and just kind of that weight, and hopefully they’ll be able to find some fun and beautiful moments. But definitely, I think that Colby’s character will definitely be felt.
What Richards’ Comments Mean For Yellowstone
His Loss Will Be Felt
The episode, which is titled “Counting Crop”, is only the latestYellowstonedeath. The seriesfamously killed off John Dutton, coinciding with Kevin Costner not returning to reprise the central role. His murder is the main focus of the remaining season 5 episodes, driving a wedge between Jamie (Wes Bentley) and his siblings. Sarah Atwood (Dawn Oliveri), who organized John’s murder with Jamie’s apparent blessing, was also shot and killed as a way of tying up loose ends.
Yellowstone Season 5, Episode 12: What Does ‘Counting Coup’ Mean?
The “counting coup” threat that Kayce made in Yellowstone season 5, episode 12 is a real Native American tradition that has significant meaning.
There are only two episodes left inYellowstoneseason 5. The show’s future beyond that is unconfirmed, though there have been reports that a season 6 renewal is pending. Richards' comments suggest thatColby’s presence will continue to be feltin these remaining episodes. However, the Western has a lot of story to work through and little time to do it.
Our Take On Colby’s Death
It Doesn’t Seem Needed
The most recent episode was written by series creator Taylor Sheridan, with Christina Alexandra Voros directing. Like most of the show’s return as well, much of the focus has been around a surprising death. But with the show’s core story unresolved, and just a few episodes left, it’s worth asking whether the Western would be better served by tightening up its focus rather than removing familiar faces from theYellowstonecast.
Yellowstone
Cast
Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, as they defend their expansive ranch against external threats from land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first national park. Released on Jun 14, 2025, this series examines the complex dynamics and violent conflicts surrounding the largest contiguous ranch in the United States.
