After becoming the latest storyline in Taylor Sheridan’s shows to garner controversy, Madison Elise Rogers is weighing in on Lindy and Donald’s relationship in 1923 season 2. Former episodes of the Yellowstone prequel saw Lindy (Rogers), an escort hired by Donald (Timothy Dalton), performing abusive acts on her companion Christy (Cailyn Rice). As their disturbing relationship escalates, Dalton’s magnate happily watches the prostitutes strike each other, and it was revealed in 1923 season 2 that Donald keeps the women around. Things have worsened since, and it appears that Lindy has gained some sense of control over Christy.
During an interview with ScreenRant for 1923 season 2, Rogers defended the relationship between Lindy and Donald. She explained that some women might have gone through a dynamic like Lindy’s, where an “obviously very dangerous” man holds power over her. She believes that “there’s something realistic about” the entire scenario. Rogers recognized the terrifying nature of that storyline and added that, while Lindy could feel supported, she is also focused on survival and is “brainwashed” by Donald. Read more of Rogers’ comments below:
For one, I think a lot of women can see themselves in a similar position or maybe have experience, to a smaller degree, of being in a situation with a man that’s powerful and dangerous. I think that is scary, and I think there’s something realistic about it. I feel like, if Whitfield existed, this would be something that actually happens. But I got it. I know it feels brutal, but I think it’s showing this very real side of a dangerous man and how he abuses his power. These women are just collateral in his scheme.
Speaking of Lindy in particular, I took it as she is in this house with this very wealthy, very powerful, and obviously very dangerous man. I think he’s given her this acceptance, or something along those lines, so I think she’s feeling favored by him. I think it’s also that she needs to survive. She is leaning into it, but I think she’s completely been brainwashed. She’s doing what she has to do, as gruesome as it is, and she’s trying to get through what she’s going through.
What This Means For 1923 Season 2
The Relationship Between Lindy & Donald May Continue
1923 season 2 has indicated that Lindy changed, particularly in how she reacts to Donald and his cruel ongoing trends. In previous episodes, she appeared afraid of Donald, having been physically and emotionally used to satisfy him. While harming Christy during the season 1 finale, Donald advises Lindy that happiness could be derived from power, and that he gets enjoyment from watching them. Then, despite her seeming to momentarily accept that, he makes Lindy and Christy swap roles, much to her horror. It was a terrifying scenario that forced Lindy to recognize just how dangerous Donald could be.
During season 2, episode 1, “The Killing Season,” Lindy remains at Donald’s home and their relationship seems progresses beyond sexual interactions. After all, he discusses the upcoming trial with her. However, one shocking Donald scene revealed that the alarming behavior between him, Lindy, and Christy has continued. After opening a closet door, Lindy retrieves a naked Christy, who has visible scars everywhere, and informs her that she will be painfully disciplined if she does not comply, suggesting that Lindy and Donald are still abusing her. While they now know Donald’s dangerous nature, neither of them have escaped his control.
Taylor Sheridan’s Shows Have Ignited Controversy
Yellowstone, Landman, & 1923 Are All Controversial
Sheridan is certainly no stranger to controversy. Nearly every one of his shows has faced backlash at some point or another. Rumors continue to swirl that Kevin Costner left Yellowstone after a feud with Sheridan, and his exit caused the show to barrel to an early ending. The producer has also faced sharp criticism over his treatment of women and Indigenous Americans in Yellowstone, 1923, and other shows. These shows often rely on stereotypes and fail to properly develop many characters. Killers of the Flower Moon’s Lily Gladstone even called the depictions “Delusional!” and “Deplorable!” in a stark critique.
There have also been other narrative controversies, which are more aligned to the Lindy and Donald storyline. Landman regularly featured the 17-year-old Ainsley (Michelle Randolph) in sexual situations. While Rudolph was 27 years old, the constant sexualizing of her character drew controversy. Not every argument has been about moral judgment, however. There have also been arguments that none of Sheridan’s shows are historically accurate, which has alienated some viewers. Historical complaints are easy to overlook, however, given the seriousness of the other issues. Sexualizing minor characters, losing main cast members, and relying on stereotypes have been far more salient concerns.
Our Take On The 1923 Lindy & Donald Storyline
Something Bad Is Bound To Happen
Based on how the Lindy and Donald storyline has unfolded, and what is evidently happening to Christy, something terrible is likely on the horizon. As season 2 progresses, it’s worth wondering what their relationship will become, and if she and Christy will somehow be able to escape his iron grip. Rogers’ comments about surviving Donald’s influence could imply that Lindy willingly goes along with everything. That only makes Christy’s fate more troubling. It is difficult to see how the character could ever escape this terrifying situation, especially when she faces routine physical discipline. Every injury makes escape less likely.
Even if Christy is currently bearing the brunt of his need for power, Lindy is also in extreme danger. Should she ever overstep or act against him, though, Donald seems capable of inflicting heavy pain. By forcing Lindy and Christy to switch roles in that early meeting, he ensures that both will understand the importance of compliance. He provided Lindy with a genuine warning. She has been heeding it so far, leaving Christy as the target. If something happens to Christy in future episodes of 1923, however, Lindy could easily find them changing roles again.
