This article contains major spoilers from the penultimate episode of 1923 season two, “The Mountain Teeth of Monsters.”
The world of 1923 has always been brutal, but episode six of season two delivered one of its most heartbreaking and shocking moments yet—the death of Jack Dutton. The character, played by Darren Mann, met his untimely end at the hands of Clyde, a henchman working for Banner Creighton and Donald Whitfield. The moment stunned fans, as Jack was gunned down in the woods without a fight, a direct consequence of his trusting nature.
The episode had a staggering body count of seven, with some deaths satisfying audiences and others delivering emotional gut punches. However, it was Jack’s unexpected demise that left fans reeling. As Clyde stood over Jack’s lifeless body, he made a chilling declaration: “If you’re a close second, I’m not too worried about the first,” vowing to go after Spencer Dutton next.
Darren Mann Reacts to Jack’s Fate
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Mann shared his initial emotional reaction to discovering Jack’s fate. “I went through all sorts of emotions. I was angry at first. I was pissed off. I was sad,” he admitted. Having deeply connected with his character, Mann grieved Jack in his own way. “I just love playing this character. He’s naïve in all the best ways—not from ignorance, but from a place of love and heart.”
Mann had long suspected that Jack’s fate was sealed in a Taylor Sheridan series, likening the experience to “playing roulette with five bullets.” Yet, when the moment finally arrived, it was still a shock.
A Tragic but Fitting End for Jack
Darren Mann as Jack Dutton with Brian Geraghty as Zane in season two, episode six of ‘1923.’ Paramount+
Jack’s death was particularly heartbreaking because of its suddenness. Unlike Jacob and Spencer Dutton, who had been bracing for danger, Jack was at home, presumably safe. However, his trusting nature proved fatal.
Mann reflected on Jack’s motivations, saying, “He takes a calculated risk. He thinks, ‘I should be there taking a bullet for Jacob if I have to.’” Unfortunately, Jack’s innocence made him vulnerable, and he was easily deceived by Clyde.
Comparisons have already been made between Jack and Yellowstone’s Kayce Dutton, played by Luke Grimes. Both characters are well-intentioned and guided by a strong moral compass, but life has a way of hardening them. Jack’s legacy may now live on through his unborn child, a key detail in the ongoing speculation about the future of the Dutton lineage.
The Fallout from Jack’s Death
Darren Mann as Jack Dutton in episode six, moments before his death. Trae Patton/Paramount+
Jack leaves behind his pregnant wife, Elizabeth (Michelle Randolph), who had struggled with the idea of ranch life but was beginning to embrace it after learning she was expecting. How will his death change her? Mann speculated, “I would hope that she’d stay and learn to love the life that I loved.” His death could be the moment Elizabeth finds her inner strength—possibly foreshadowing a transformation into a fierce protector of the Dutton family legacy, similar to Yellowstone’s Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly).
His death also sets up the final confrontation between the Duttons and their enemies. “The revenge that I was after, I think the family makes sure to get that,” Mann teased. He believes the season finale will leave audiences stunned: “There will be surprises no one could anticipate. It will not disappoint.”
A Bittersweet Goodbye
Michelle Randolph as Elizabeth Dutton, Jack’s wife, with Helen Mirren as Cara Dutton in season two. Trae Patton/Paramount+
Shooting Jack’s final moments was an emotional experience for Mann and the 1923 cast. The crew applauded him when he wrapped, and there were hugs all around. “It’s a huge moment to lose Jack—so, apologies in advance to fans,” said Brian Konowal, who plays Clyde.
Mann’s final day on set, however, was spent filming a scene with Harrison Ford (Jacob Dutton), a fitting conclusion to his 1923 journey. “It was just little clips—riding through the snow, packing out horses, moving elk. It felt like the most perfect button to this amazing adventure,” Mann recalled.
When asked if Ford shared any parting words, Mann revealed that the legendary actor simply said, “Let’s find another one, kid.” Mann replied, “Damn straight. I’d be there in a second.”
What’s Next for 1923?
Brian Konowal as Clyde, who gunned down Jack, with Colt Brown and Jerome Flynn as Banner Creighton. Lauren Smith/Paramount+
With Jack’s tragic demise, 1923 is hurtling toward a dramatic conclusion. While Paramount+ has not confirmed whether season two is the final installment, the Duttons’ story is far from over. With Elizabeth and Spencer’s wife, Alexandra, both pregnant, the family’s legacy continues to take shape.
Mann himself has a dream for the franchise: “Who would play Jack’s son better than Jack?! Let’s clean me up, give me a shave, and then it’s 1944—Jack Jr., I’m back. Let’s go.”
Whether or not that happens, 1923 remains a gripping exploration of the Dutton family’s struggles. Fans can only wait and see how this chapter of the Yellowstone universe comes to an explosive end.
