SPOILER ALERT: This article contains spoilers from the ninth episode of “Dutton Ranch,” “El Padrino,” now streaming on Paramount+.
The “Dutton Ranch” finale has stirred controversy as Rob-Will (Jai Courtney) is shot at his front door. The episode suggests his adoptive brother Joaquin (Juan Pablo Raba) could be the culprit, acting on orders from their father Mariano (Raoul Max Trujillo) to reclaim control of the 10 Petal Ranch.
The Aftermath of the Shooting
The murder leaves Rob-Will’s daughter Oreana (Natalie Alyn Lind) and mother Beulah (Annette Bening) devastated. This event sets the stage for Rip (Cole Hauser) and Beth (Kelly Reilly) as they attempt to retrieve Carter (Finn Little) from a Mexican cartel.
Raba’s Doubts on Joaquin's Guilt
In an interview following the finale, Raba expressed skepticism about Joaquin’s involvement. “Do you think Joaquin killed Rob-Will?” Raba asked. He pointed to the timeline of the scene, noting that Rob-Will says goodbye to Oreana, and within seconds, a gunshot is heard. “Are you telling me that Joaquin did that?” he questioned, emphasizing Joaquin’s sobriety and lack of motive.
Raba highlighted Joaquin’s transformation throughout the season. “He’s completely thrown out of his element,” Raba explained. “This guy’s not a cowboy, not a killer. His prized possession is his A&M ring. His education is something no one can take from him.”
Future Uncertain for Joaquin
Regarding the next season, Raba remains uncertain but eager to see Joaquin’s development. “I’m dying to get a new script and hopefully be in it,” he said. He praised the complexity of Taylor Sheridan’s universe, where characters are shaped by circumstances rather than moral absolutes.
Raba sees potential in exploring Joaquin’s motivations, rooted in heartbreak and a sense of not belonging. “I think Joaquin’s heartbreak is what motivates that phone call,” he shared. “It’s from telling people, ‘Hey, mom, I did everything right. Your real son is a real fuckup, but I did everything right.’”
Joaquin’s Emotional Drive
Raba believes Joaquin’s actions resonate with broader societal themes. “Why won’t you love me? I have not done anything wrong,” he reflected, suggesting Joaquin’s arc could address universal issues of acceptance and identity.
With the characters’ motivations laid bare, the upcoming season of “Dutton Ranch” promises further exploration of complex emotional landscapes.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/tv/features/dutton-ranch-joaquin-didnt-shoot-rob-will-1236801208/
