Thomas Rainwater is the chairman of the Confederated Tribes of Broken Rock and the leader of the Broken Rock Indian Reservation. He is a smart and ambitious man who works to protect the land and rights of his people. Thomas owns the Painted Horse Casino and Grey Wolf Peak Casino, which help support the Reservation’s economy. He is determined to reclaim the land his ancestors lost, including the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, and bring prosperity to his tribe.

Trivia/Facts

• Thomas Rainwater was not raised on the Broken Rock Reservation and grew up believing he was of Mexican descent. At the age of 18, he discovered through his adoption records that he was actually of Native American heritage. This realization gave him a deeper connection to his ancestral roots and a sense of purpose. However, he never met his biological mother, which left parts of his past unanswered.
• Rainwater pursued higher studies and graduated from Harvard University, where he also completed a Master’s in Business Administration. During his studies, he interned at the American Petroleum Institute, gaining valuable experience in the corporate world. Later, he worked at prominent firms like Emerson and Merrill Lynch, developing his business expertise. These achievements made him a highly capable and driven leader.

Yellowstone (2018–2024)

• Thomas Rainwater became the elected chairman of the Confederated Tribes of Broken Rock. As the leader, he focused on protecting the Reservation land and securing its future. He expressed his ambition to reclaim what rightfully belonged to his people, including lands like the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. His strong leadership made him a respected yet controversial figure among his people and outsiders.
• Rainwater owns the Painted Horse Casino and the Grey Wolf Peak Casino, which play a major role in the Reservation’s economy. These casinos provide financial stability for the tribes and offer opportunities for growth. Rainwater believes they are a means to bring prosperity to his people while asserting their independence. His strategic vision has made him an influential businessman in Montana.
• As chairman, Rainwater holds a clear goal to expand the Reservation land for the tribes. He is determined to reclaim territories lost over generations, including lands occupied by the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. His plans include building hotels and casinos to strengthen the Reservation’s economy. However, his ambitions often bring him into conflict with ranch owners and members of his own tribe.

Yellowstone (2018–2024)

• Rainwater is assisted by Mo, his trusted driver and confidant, and Emily Sessions, who supports his operations. He collaborated with Dan Jenkins of Paradise Valley to build a hotel and casino, aiming to annex surrounding lands. This decision angered some tribal members like Marcus, who disagreed with Rainwater’s methods. These partnerships reflect his willingness to form alliances to achieve his goals.
• Rainwater’s ambition to reclaim land led to a direct conflict with the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. In a controversial move, he stole cattle from the Duttons, which resulted in his arrest by the Montana Livestock Association. He was held in prison until the stolen cattle were returned. This event marked the beginning of a long-running feud with the Dutton family.
• Rainwater’s identity as a Native American leader drives his determination to fight for his people. He seeks to restore the dignity and land his ancestors lost over centuries of hardship. Despite challenges, he remains steadfast in his mission to expand and protect the Broken Rock Reservation. His leadership, combined with his sharp intellect, makes him both a powerful ally and a dangerous adversary.

Yellowstone (2018–2024)

Thomas Rainwater’s Relationship with Other Characters

• Mo: Mo is Thomas Rainwater’s trusted driver, bodyguard, and close advisor. He is loyal and always assists Rainwater in carrying out his plans.
• Emily Sessions: Emily works with Rainwater and helps him manage important projects. She supports his vision for the Reservation’s future.
• Dan Jenkins: Rainwater forms a partnership with businessman Dan Jenkins to build a casino and hotel. While they work together for mutual benefit, their alliance creates tension with others.
• John Dutton: Rainwater and John Dutton are often in conflict over land ownership, especially the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. Their relationship is defined by rivalry and a struggle for control.
• Marcus: Marcus, a tribal member, disagrees with Rainwater’s plans, especially his collaboration with outsiders. This creates tension within the tribe.
• Montana Livestock Association: Rainwater clashes with the Livestock Association when he steals cattle from the Dutton Ranch. This event escalates his conflict with John Dutton.