‘1923’ Season 2, Episode 4 Features Intense Turmoil and Surprising Joy for Duttons
On March 16, 2025, viewers tuned in for the explosive Episode 4 of ‘1923’ Season 2, titled "Journey the Rivers of Iron." This installment brought both harrowing moments and unexpected joys for the often-embattled Dutton family, following the cliffhangers of previous episodes.
The episode opened on Alexandra (played by Julia Schlaepfer) at the Grand Central Station restroom, preparing for her flight to Montana. Unfortunately, she was soon ambushed and robbed by an assailant who took not only her money but also her friend’s bracelet, marking the beginning of a troubling day for her.
Meanwhile, the precarious state of Zane (Brian Geraghty) came to the forefront as he underwent emergency surgery to alleviate severe swelling during his hospital stay. Dr. Shilling performed the high-stakes procedure, drilling through Zane's skull to drain the fluids. Despite the tension surrounding the operation, it ended successfully, with Jack Dutton expressing his relief, remarking, “I got to tell you, doc — I didn’t have a lot of faith in it working.”
While Zane's successful surgery was one bright spot, Elizabeth (Michelle Randolph) dealt with her own emotional turmoil. She had been feeling despondent, but after conversation with her father-in-law Jacob (Harrison Ford), she discovered she was pregnant. This news brought happiness to the snow-covered Dutton Ranch, with Jacob proclaiming, “Sun don’t rise in the east with him, it rises with you!” A tender scene unfolded as Elizabeth embraced Jack (Darren Mann) amid the swirling snow, celebrating their future family.
Across the country, Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar) faced his own set of challenges. Currently traversing Texas, he found himself cornered by the local sheriff after his friend Luca's death at the wrong end of gunfire. Instead of surrendering, Spencer jumped aboard a passing train to evade capture, carrying his rifle as he scuffled with grizzled passengers onboard.
Adding complexity to the story, Banner Creighton (Jerome Flynn) remained uncertain about his involvement with Donald Whitfield (Timothy Dalton), whose plans to transform the Dutton lands for profit appear ruthless. Whitfield’s circle grew potentially deadly when one of his accomplices murdered another captive. With growing tensions simmering within his network, Creighton confided to his wife Ellie about the dark turns he might have to take soon.
Teonna Rainwater (Aminah Nieves) faced difficulties of her own, with wanted posters featuring her likeness plastered everywhere. She, along with her father and boyfriend, grappled with their prospects as they tried to evade the law amid heightened tensions within the Dutton world.
‘1923’ serves as the second prequel to the immensely popular 'Yellowstone' series, following the events depicted in '1883.' Set during the harsh early 20th century, the Dutton family navigates cities and states marred by pandemics, droughts, and societal changes for survival. Further entrenching itself within the saga is the running theme of family loyalty and the fight against misfortune.
The show's depiction of multifaceted challenges facing the Dutton family significantly resonates with viewers. Contributing factors include character development and narrative twists crafted by Taylor Sheridan, the mind behind the critically acclaimed franchise. Following the premiere of Season 2, Episode 4, audience engagement remains high, contemplating the fate of characters like Alexandra, Spencer, and Zane.
A snapshot of the episode demonstrates the show’s unique ability to blend moments of brutality alongside heartfelt revelations. While viewers are left pondering, “Will Alexandra make it to Montana?” and “Will Zane make a full recovery?” the Duttons prove they will continue to fight for their legacy, no matter the cost.
'1923' continues to air weekly on Paramount+, where audiences can follow the remaining fate of the family with new episodes released every Sunday. The season is anticipated to conclude with dramatic twists and sharpened risks for the characters, keeping fans eagerly awaiting each new installment.