Fans around the world are deeply saddened by the tragic news involving the Yellowstone family, both on-screen and off. Recently, actor Cole Brings Plenty, an emerging star connected to the Yellowstone universe and nephew of Yellowstone actor Mo Brings Plenty, was found dead at the age of 27. This heartbreaking loss sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, especially among fans of the Yellowstone franchise and its prequel series 1923.
Before we go any further, it’s important to clarify that Mo Brings Plenty himself is alive and continues his role on Yellowstone, as well as returning in the spinoff Y: Marshals. What passed away was his nephew, Cole Brings Plenty, who appeared on 1923 and also had roles in several Western and adventure series before his untimely death.
This article pays tribute to Cole’s life, explores what happened, and reflects on how the Yellowstone family’s world continues to respond to this tragic event.
Who Was Cole Brings Plenty? A Life in Acting and Promise
Cole Brings Plenty was a young actor who worked steadily in television and film. He portrayed Pete Plenty Clouds in the first season of 1923, a prequel to Yellowstone, and his presence was well received by fans and colleagues alike.
Beyond 1923, Cole appeared in western dramas including “The Tall Tales of Jim Bridger” and “Into the Wild Frontier.” He was also known for modeling work and was studying at Haskell Indian Nations University, showing a commitment to both his craft and his education.
Cole’s acting career was rising at the same time as his visibility in the Native American creative community, where he was celebrated not just as a performer but as a voice of representation.
A Tragic Sequence of Events Leading to Loss
The events leading up to Cole’s death were deeply distressing for those who knew and loved him. In April 2024, he was reported missing by his family after he failed to show up for a scheduled appointment with his agent.
Authorities later named him a suspect in an alleged domestic violence incident, and a missing person alert was issued. His uncle, Mo Brings Plenty, and fellow Yellowstone actor Cole Hauser both shared information on social media in hopes of locating him safely.
After days of searching, his body was found in a wooded area of Johnson County, Kansas, near an unoccupied vehicle. Law enforcement officials reported that there was “no indication of foul play,” though the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear and under investigation.
The Emotional Toll on Family and Friends
Losing a loved one at such a young age is heartbreaking for any family. Cole’s relatives, including his father, Joe Brings Plenty Sr.,, and his uncle Mo, expressed their grief publicly, thanking supporters for their thoughts and prayers while navigating immense sorrow.
Friends and co-stars remember him as a kind, talented young man with a bright future. The cast of 1923 honored him deeply, especially as they continued filming Season 2 without him.
How 1923 Paid Tribute to Cole in Season 2
When 1923 returned for its second season, the premiere paid homage to Cole Brings Plenty’s work and legacy. The show opened with a heartfelt “In Memoriam” dedication, showing images of Cole as Pete Plenty Clouds and honoring his contributions to the series.
Although the role was recast for the second season with actor Jeremy Gauna, the cast and crew made a point to celebrate Cole’s spirit, referring to his presence as something that stayed with them throughout filming.
Recasting and Continuity in the Yellowstone Universe
After Cole’s death, 1923 producers recast his role rather than write the character out of the story. Jeremy Gauna stepped into the role of Pete Plenty Clouds for Season 2, a decision made with careful consideration to honor Cole’s contributions while moving the narrative forward.
This change was emotional for the actors around him, especially those who had become close friends. Gauna himself described the role as a way to honor Cole’s life and legacy, rather than replace him.
Mo Brings Plenty – The Yellowstone Star and Family Man
Mo Brings Plenty, whose full name is Moses J. Brings Plenty, is a respected Native American actor known for his role as Mo on Yellowstone. He also works behind the scenes to ensure accurate representation of Native languages and cultures.
Mo’s connection to Cole was personal and profound — their familial bond was rooted in shared heritage and community. The actor has continued his career, including roles in the upcoming Y: Marshals spinoff of the Yellowstone franchise.
Remembering Cole’s Cultural Legacy
Cole Brings Plenty’s passing reminded many of the cultural importance of his heritage. Members of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe responded to his death by calling for respectful attention to his disappearance and death, highlighting the significance of identity and tradition to their community.
His life and work represented not just a career, but a connection to community and culture that resonated with Indigenous audiences and allies alike.
The Ongoing Investigation and Family Wishes
Although initial reports ruled out foul play, the exact cause of Cole Brings Plenty’s death has not been publicly disclosed. His family has called for a thorough and fair investigation to understand the circumstances fully.
At events like the Red Nation Film Festival, his father spoke out about seeking truth and justice for his son, showing that the family continues to process their loss amid unanswered questions.
Public Response and Fan Reactions
Fans of Yellowstone and 1923 reacted with sorrow and condolences across social platforms. Many shared memories of Cole’s performances and praised his work in bringing Native characters to life on screen.
Some online discussions also included speculation, but many viewers urged respect for the family’s privacy and cautioned against spreading unverified information.
Health and Wellness Conversations Sparked by the Tragedy
Tragic events like this often lead audiences to reflect on broader issues — mental health, crisis intervention, and how society responds when someone is missing or in distress.
Cole’s death, while private and tragic, encouraged some fans to think more deeply about how communities support those in emotional and legal crises, especially younger people in the entertainment industry.
How the Entertainment Industry Honors Lost Talent
Tributes like 1923’s “In Memoriam” sequence highlight how the industry honors actors who pass away. These moments bring visibility to the person behind the character and allow audiences to grieve collectively.
It’s a reminder that actors like Cole Brings Plenty are more than characters — they are people whose lives touch others in meaningful ways.
The Lasting Impact on the Yellowstone Family
The Yellowstone universe is tightly knit, both on camera and off. The loss of a cast member, even one with a smaller but meaningful role, leaves a gap. Viewers and colleagues agree that Cole’s work, personality, and heritage added depth to the story world.
The continuation of his character by another actor keeps his legacy alive in narrative form, while the impact of his real life story continues to resonate with viewers.
Conclusion
The passing of Cole Brings Plenty, nephew of Yellowstone star Mo Brings Plenty, marks a deeply sad moment for fans and the entertainment community alike. His work on 1923 and beyond showed a young actor with potential, heart, and cultural pride. Although he died too young, at only 27 years old, his legacy lives on through the characters he brought to life and the heartfelt tributes shared by cast, crew, family, and fans. As 1923 moves forward with new episodes, audiences will remember both the character of Pete Plenty Clouds and the life of the man who first played him.
5 Unique FAQs
FAQ 1: Did Mo Brings Plenty the actor die?
No. Mo Brings Plenty, who stars on Yellowstone, is alive. It was his nephew, Cole Brings Plenty, who passed away at 27.
FAQ 2: What role did Cole Brings Plenty play?
He played Pete Plenty Clouds in the first season of 1923.
FAQ 3: Was foul play involved in his death?
Authorities stated there was no indication of foul play, though the cause of death remains unclear.
FAQ 4: How did 1923 honor Cole?
The Season 2 premiere of 1923 opened with an “In Memoriam” tribute to Cole Brings Plenty.
FAQ 5: Who replaced Cole in 1923?
Actor Jeremy Gauna took over the role of Pete Plenty Clouds in Season 2
