Bethany “Beth” Dutton-Wheeler is a bold and fearless character from the TV series Yellowstone, played by Kelly Reilly. She is the only daughter of John and Evelyn Dutton and has a complex personality shaped by her troubled past. Beth is highly intelligent and skilled in business but is also known for being aggressive, unpredictable, and emotionally intense. Her strong loyalty to her family and the Yellowstone Ranch drives many of her actions, making her both a protector and a fighter in the Dutton family’s battles.

Trivia/Facts

• Bethany “Beth” Dutton-Wheeler is the only daughter of John and Evelyn Dutton, born on July 18, 1984. She is the middle child among her siblings, making her childhood challenging as she sought her parents’ approval. In 1997, a tragic accident involving her mother’s horse caused Evelyn’s death, leading to deep resentment from her father, John. This incident and her father’s distance deeply scarred Beth, shaping her rebellious and volatile personality.
• After her mother’s death, Beth started rebelling by drinking alcohol and smoking, trying to cope with her emotional pain. She formed a close bond with Rip Wheeler, a ranch hand on the Dutton Ranch, and they eventually became romantically involved. Beth became pregnant by Rip but kept it a secret, fearing her father’s reaction and its impact on Rip. Seeking help, she confided in her brother Jamie, who arranged an abortion but failed to inform her of the sterilization requirement, causing lifelong tension between them.
• In her early 20s, Beth joined Schwartz & Meyer, a leading financial firm, and quickly rose to become the head of acquisitions in the Northwest. She was known for her sharp intelligence, manipulative skills, and ruthless tactics in business dealings. However, a failed scheme against Market Equities led to her being ousted from the firm when they took majority control. Despite her professional success, her personal struggles, including an alcohol dependency, influenced many of her decisions.

Kelly Reilly in Yellowstone

• Beth had an on-and-off relationship with Rip Wheeler but eventually took the lead and proposed marriage, showing her strong-willed nature. She bought Rip a wedding ring herself, fearing his hesitation due to his respect for her father, John Dutton. After John’s health scare, Beth became the executor of the Yellowstone Ranch estate, ensuring its legacy. Her loyalty to the ranch and family remains unwavering, often putting her at the forefront of battles to protect their land.
• While visiting John in the hospital, Beth met Carter, a troubled boy who had lost his father to addiction. Feeling a sense of compassion, she and Rip took Carter in, providing him with a home at the ranch. Their relationship started rocky, but Carter eventually became part of the Dutton family and contributed as a ranch hand. Beth’s interactions with Carter revealed a softer, maternal side that contrasts her usual abrasive demeanor.
• Beth crossed paths with Roarke Morris, an opponent from Market Equities, sparking a fierce rivalry over the Dutton land. Market Equities launched a violent attack on the Dutton family, including a parcel bomb sent to Beth’s office. The bomb killed her assistant and left Beth with severe injuries, including permanent scars and burns. Despite the trauma, Beth played a key role in the family’s retaliation, displaying her resilience and determination.
• The Dutton family tracked down the mercenaries responsible for the attacks, with Rip taking matters into his own hands against Roarke. Rip confronted Roarke while he was fly-fishing, using a rattlesnake to fatally poison him. Beth and Rip’s actions showcased their willingness to go to any lengths to protect the ranch and their family. This event marked the culmination of Beth’s fight against Market Equities and her dedication to safeguarding her family’s legacy.
• Beth is a fiercely intelligent and manipulative woman, known for her sharp tongue and ruthless attitude. Her traumatic past and family conflicts have made her emotionally unstable, but her loyalty to her family remains unshakable. She is both feared and respected in the business world, as well as by those who cross her path on the ranch. Through her struggles and triumphs, Beth remains a pivotal figure in the Dutton family’s fight to preserve Yellowstone Ranch.

Kelly Reilly in Yellowstone

Beth Dutton’s Relationship with Other Characters

• John Dutton (Father): Beth has a complicated relationship with her father, marked by both love and resentment. She seeks his approval but struggles with the emotional distance that arose after her mother’s death.
• Evelyn Dutton (Mother): Beth’s relationship with her mother was strict, and Evelyn’s high expectations created pressure. Evelyn’s tragic death in a horse accident left Beth feeling guilty and deeply affected.
• Jamie Dutton (Brother): Beth harbors intense hatred for Jamie due to his betrayal during her abortion. Their relationship is filled with anger and mistrust, and she often belittles him.
• Kayce Dutton (Brother): Beth shares a more neutral and supportive bond with Kayce compared to Jamie. She respects him and his dedication to the family, although they rarely share emotional moments.

Kelly Reilly in Yellowstone

• Rip Wheeler (Husband): Rip is the love of Beth’s life, and their bond is deep and unwavering. Despite her tough exterior, Rip understands and accepts her completely, making their relationship unique.
• Carter (Foster Son): Initially hesitant, Beth takes in Carter and helps him find a place in the Dutton family. Their relationship grows as Beth shows a softer, maternal side while helping him rebuild his life.
• Enemies (Market Equities, Roarke Morris): Beth has fierce rivalries with Roarke Morris and Market Equities, who threaten her family’s land. She uses her intelligence and manipulative skills to fight them and protect the Yellowstone Ranch.