Split over two seasons and an epic two-hour finale, 1923 —the sprawling Dutton-family tale of the roaring twenties—featured a little something for everyone. Taylor Sheridan wrote multiple shoot-outs, a hospital drama, and even a tragic romance between star-crossed lovers. All in a Yellowstone prequel, mind you!

Leading into the finale, “1923” fans had already said goodbye to five main characters. In the penultimate episode, Pete (Jeremy Gauna), Kent (Jamie McShane), Jack (Darren Mann), Runs His Horse (Michael Spears) and Father Renaud (Sebastian Roché) were all killed off, hinting that the finale would include more bloodshed and heartbreaking moments.

One particular group of 1923 fans are really upset with how the show ended. The rest of us have chosen to digest the tragedy with reality blinders on. The finale was imperfect, but beautiful. When you squint,