“1923” is one of Taylor Sheridan’s most critically acclaimed projects, boasting a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes at the time of writing. However, the latest installment isn’t without its flaws. The season premiere continues an unnecessary trend, revisiting one of “Yellowstone’s” most controversial moments, highlighting Sheridan’s tendency to repeat certain themes. Additionally, one of the current storylines in the series is directly inspired by “Yellowstone,” as Elizabeth Strafford (Michelle Randolph) mirrors Monica Dutton’s (Kelsey Asbille) journey.
Like Monica, Elizabeth feels out of place at the Dutton family ranch, even comparing it to a prison at times. Her frustration peaks in Episode 2, “The Rapist is Cold,” after she’s attacked by a wolf and subsequently forced to endure rabies treatment. This follows her abortion in Season 1, paralleling Monica’s tragic loss of her child in Season 5 of “Yellowstone.”
The similarities between Elizabeth and Monica go beyond their shared struggles. In many ways, they’re cut from the same cloth, and if “1923” continues on its current trajectory, Elizabeth could soon become a fan-favorite character.
Monica Hates Ranch Life on Yellowstone
As mentioned earlier, Elizabeth views the Yellowstone ranch as a prison and is deeply unhappy living there. In “1923” Season 2, Episode 2, she even vows to leave and return home, only for Cara Dutton (Helen Mirren) to persuade her to stay until spring, promising that the scenery will make her suffering worthwhile. However, this place has been a source of unhappiness for generations.
Monica on “Yellowstone” frequently begs her husband Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) to leave the ranch, especially after it endangers their family. Their son, Tate Dutton (Brecken Merrill), nearly dies on the property, further validating Monica’s concerns and proving its dangers. Monica often compares the ranch to the Alamo and consistently expresses her desire to leave, a sentiment Kayce eventually shares. It appears Elizabeth and Jack Dutton (Darren Mann) are heading down a similar path.
While Monica’s desire to leave the ranch is understandable, this storyline faced backlash from fans, with some labeling her as “toxic” and even calling for her character’s demise. Elizabeth is now echoing many of Monica’s concerns, but it remains to be seen whether fans will react to her with the same disdain. For now, the prequel series seems to be treading familiar ground, as this storyline feels all too recognizable.
