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), instructed to perform abusive acts on her companion Christy (Cailyn Rice). As their disturbing relationship escalated, Dalton’s magnate happily watched the prostitutes strike each other, and it was revealed in 1923 season 2 that Donald keeps the women around, but things have severely worsened, and it appears that Lindy has gained some sense of control over Christy.
During an interview 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 a man holds power, and that “there’s something realistic about it.” Rogers recognized the scary 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 get 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 Yellowstone Season 2
The Relationship Between Lindy And Donald May Continue
1923 season 2 has indicated that Lindy changed, particularly in how she reacts to Donald and his cruel ongoing tendencies. In previous episodes, she appeared fearful of Donald, having been physically and emotionally used to satisfy him. While harming Christy during the season 1 finale, Lindy was advised by Donald that happiness could be derived from power, and that he got enjoyment from watching. Then, despite her seeming to momentarily accept that, he made Lindy and Christy swap roles, to her horror.
During season 2, episode 1, “The Killing Season,” Lindy remained at Donald’s home and their relationship seemingly progressed beyond the merely sexual, as he discussed the upcoming trial with her. However, one shocking Donald scene revealed that the alarming behavior between him, Lindy, and Christy has continued. Opening a closet door, Lindy retrieved a naked Christy, who had visible scars everywhere, and informed her that she would be painfully disciplined if she did not comply, suggesting that Lindy and Donald were still abusing her.
Our Take On The 1923 Lindy And 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 bad is likely on the horizon. As season 2 progresses, it’s worth wondering what their relationship will become, and if she and Christy somehow get out of it. Rogers’ comments about surviving and being influenced by Donald could imply that Lindy goes along with everything, which makes Christy’s potential 1923 fate more troubling. Should Lindy ever overstep or act against him, though, Donald seems capable of inflicting heavy pain.