Wendy Moniz is saying goodbye to her Yellowstone character Governor Lynelle Perry. The actress recently wrapped her role on the Paramount drama after portraying the formidable politician for over half a decade. In an emotional Instagram post, Moniz reflected on her time with the neo-Western hit, describing the set as her “home away from home” and expressing gratitude for the opportunity.
Moniz has been a mainstay on Yellowstone since the beginning, lending her character’s no-nonsense perspective to the Dutton family’s dealings in the state legislature. As Governor Perry, she regularly sparred – and sometimes allied – with ranch matriarch Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) over land and oil rights issues facing Montana. Moniz brought nuance and grit to the role that earned her a loyal fan following.
While this marks the end of Governor Perry’s storyline, diehard fans of theYellowstone universe wonder if Moniz may one day reignite the character in a planned sequel or spinoff. The show’s expansive narrative continues to unfold across multiple platforms, with familiar faces like Reilly, Cole Hauser, and Luke Grimes set to reprise major roles in the forthcoming 6666 installment.
News also broke that Michelle Pfeiffer, Kurt Russell and Patrick J. Adams are starring in The Madison, a contemporary offshoot following the wealthy Clyburn family in Montana. Centered around the expansion of theYellowstone brand, the project speaks to the saga’s potential for keeping audiences invested in the world Taylor Sheridan has so skillfully crafted.
Fans will miss Moniz’s steadfast presence on Yellowstone, a show that has become required Sunday night viewing. Her tribute serves as a reminder of the profound impact enduring dramas can have not only on viewers, but those who help bring complex characters vividly to life. Yellowstonemay ride off into the sunset, but its expansive universe promises Moniz’s Governor Perry could one day return to the range.