Key Facts
Paramount+'s Dutton Ranch wrapped its first season with a shocking finale that left fans questioning the fate of several characters. Among them, Joaquin, played by Juan Pablo Raba, narrowly escaped death in Episode 6 and now faces a moral dilemma in the finale. The series, a spin-off of Yellowstone, has kept viewers on edge with its unpredictable storytelling.
Joaquin's Near-Death Experience
In Episode 6, Joaquin is confronted by Chet, who pulls a gun on him. Raba recalls reading the script and thinking, "Well, this is it. It was fun while it lasted." He was convinced his character was being killed off, especially since he hadn't received any warning from producers. However, the script took a turn when Miguel shot Chet from the shadows, sparing Joaquin. Raba calls the twist "a big surprise story-wise."
The Finale Cliffhanger
The season finale raises the stakes when Joaquin's father, Mariano, orders him to kill his brother Rob-Will. Joaquin is visibly tormented, and later that night, Rob-Will is gunned down at the Jackson family home. But did Joaquin pull the trigger? Raba points out that the episode never shows Joaquin committing the murder. "All we see is Joaquin in his car giving some hard thought to something," he says, suggesting Mariano may have sent a backup assassin.
What's Next for Joaquin?
Raba acknowledges that Joaquin's survival is precarious. "I don't know how much longer Joaquin could live," he admits, adding that the show's future is uncertain for all characters except Beth and Rip. The actor remains grateful for the role but prepared for any outcome.
FAQ
Did Joaquin kill Rob-Will in Dutton Ranch?
The finale shows Joaquin agonizing before Rob-Will is shot, but actor Juan Pablo Raba suggests Joaquin may not have pulled the trigger. He believes Mariano may have sent a backup.
Will Joaquin survive future seasons of Dutton Ranch?
Raba is uncertain, saying "I don't know how much longer Joaquin could live. Maybe it's 10 seasons, maybe one more."
What happened in Dutton Ranch Season 1 finale?
Joaquin is ordered by his father Mariano to kill his brother Rob-Will. Later, Rob-Will is shot dead at the Jackson family home, but the shooter's identity is ambiguous.