The mother on “Yellowstone,” Evelyn Dutton, died in a horseback riding accident.
Evelyn Dutton, portrayed by Gretchen Mol, is the late wife of John Dutton, who is played by Kevin Costner, and the mother of their children: Lee, Jamie, Beth, and Kayce. Her death is a pivotal event that occurred prior to the events of the series but is shown in flashbacks. The accident happened while she was riding with her young children. A horse she was trying to control reared up and fell on her, causing fatal injuries. Her death profoundly affected each member of the Dutton family and continues to influence their actions and relationships throughout the series. The loss of Evelyn left John to raise their children alone, and her absence is a source of deep pain and unresolved issues for the family, particularly for Beth, who was present during the accident and feels responsible for her mother’s death.