What is the connection between Yellowstone and Wilford Brimley? Details about the title card reference, explained

Taylor Sheridan’s hit neo-western series Yellowstone Season 3 Episode 9, titled Meaner Than Evil, honoured the legendary Wilford Brimley with a title card. Despite never appearing on Yellowstone, Brimley had a prolific career in the Western genre and when he passed away in 2020, it was only natural for Sheridan’s show to honour his memory.

The title card read,

"In loving memory of Wilford Brimley"

and the following one-line eulogy continued,

"A cowboy, an artist, and a damn good friend."

Some fans were confused seeing this title card as they could not remember or understand if Brimley was ever associated with the show. While he wasn't associated with Yellowstone, Brimley, as an actor, had enough impact on the Western genre that made it only natural for Yellowstone to honour him post his demise.

Let us now explore who was Wilford Brimley in detail including what projects he had been a part of.

Also Read: Yellowstone: 7 questions that remain after show finale, explored

Who was Wilford Brimley?

Wilford Brimley was an American actor who started his professional acting career as a stuntman and background actor for Western movies back in the 50s and 60s. Gradually because of his looks and acting skills he moved on to major roles in the same genre.

Some of his most famous works include films like The Thing and The China Syndrome. His breakout role was Horace Brimley in the 1970s TV show The Waltons. Some of his Western films include Brigham City, Crossfire Trail, The Ballad of Lucy Whipple, A Place to Grow etc.

Several of Brimley’s notable works were also outside the Western genre, including, Cocoon, The Natural, The Firm etc.

Why did Yellowstone honour Wilford Brimley with a title card?

Wilford Brimley did not appear in Yellowstone / (Image via Netflix)

While Brimley never physically appeared in Yellowstone, his filmography proves that he would have fit right in with the Duttons. With his deep voice and signature moustache, Brimley’s influence could be felt throughout Sheridan’s Western as many of the show's main characters share those traits.

In Yellowstone Season 4 Episode 5, confusion arose when fans thought they had spotted Brimley in the episode. It became even more surprising because the actor had passed away in 2020.

However, the confusion was cleared when fans realized that the character of Ross, whom they thought was being played by Brimley was actually played by another famous actor Barry Corbin.

Corbin is a celebrated actor in his own right and his filmography also includes several Westerns just like Brimley. Despite being mostly cast as supporting characters, Corbin has made a place for himself when it comes to Westerns. One of his most notable projects is his cameo as Ellis in No Country for Old Men.

Corbin’s other notable projects include War Games, Lonesome Dove, One Tree Hill etc.

What is Yellowstone about?

Created by Taylor Sheridan, Yellowstone follows the Dutton family as they try to maintain the ownership of their ranch. With its neo-Western theme, the story is full of drama, complicated family relationships, and all that comes with owning the largest ranch in America.

While Yellowstone has concluded after running for 5 seasons, there are multiple spin-offs already out and under works, which ensures the fans will not have to say goodbye to the Duttons anytime soon.

Yellowstone Seasons 1-5 can be streamed on Paramount+.