Out of ‘Yellowstone’s Bad Guys, These Two Are the Worst
Throughout its run, Yellowstone has introduced a variety of antagonists, but none have been as memorable or impactful as the Beck Brothers, featured prominently in Season 2. Played masterfully by Neal McDonough and Terry Serpico, Malcolm and Teal Beck redefined what it meant to be adversaries in Taylor Sheridan’s acclaimed Western drama. Their ruthless pursuit of power and wealth created some of the most intense and emotionally charged moments in the series.
From their calculated use of intimidation and blackmail to their audacious kidnapping of Tate Dutton (Brecken Merrill), the Beck Brothers embodied pure menace. Their brutal tactics forced alliances among key characters, including the Dutton family, Chief Thomas Rainwater (Gil Birmingham), and developer Dan Jenkins (Danny Huston). This collaboration shifted the narrative landscape of the series, solidifying the Becks’ role as pivotal figures in the show’s history.
Neal McDonough’s portrayal of Malcolm Beck was particularly noteworthy. Known for his work as a nuanced villain across various projects, McDonough brought a chilling depth to Malcolm, portraying him as a businessman who justified even the most heinous acts under his own moral code. “One of the things I try to do with all of my villains is to make it so that everything they do is completely justified in their own minds,” McDonough shared in a special feature, highlighting the complexity of his character.
The Beck Brothers’ arc not only elevated the stakes in Yellowstone but also deepened the show’s exploration of power, loyalty, and survival. Their actions left an indelible mark, altering the dynamics between the Duttons and their allies, including Rainwater and Jenkins. Even after their downfall—Teal killed by Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) and Malcolm’s fate left ambiguous—their presence continued to resonate, influencing the narrative long after Season 2.
Speculation about Malcolm Beck’s return persists, fueled by McDonough’s comments suggesting that the character could reappear for a revenge storyline. “I can’t imagine what Malcolm Beck would be like after he comes back… and [gets] revenge against the whole Dutton family. I just think it would be fantastic television,” McDonough remarked in an interview, sparking anticipation among fans.
The Beck Brothers remain a benchmark for villainy in Yellowstone, their complexity and calculated ruthlessness setting them apart from the show’s other antagonists. As the series evolves, their legacy serves as a reminder of the high stakes and moral dilemmas that define Taylor Sheridan’s compelling storytelling.
Yellowstone is available for streaming exclusively on Peacock.
