Rooster’s last episode on The Ranch is Episode 5 of Part 6, titled “Last Dollar (Motor Oil)”. In this episode, Rooster, played by Danny Masterson, departs the show following allegations against the actor, with his character’s fate left ambiguous after a motorcycle accident seemingly orchestrated by Nick, Mary’s violent ex-boyfriend.
Rooster’s Departure: A Controversial Exit
The departure of Rooster Bennett from The Ranch was shrouded in controversy due to allegations of sexual assault against actor Danny Masterson. Netflix ultimately fired Masterson, and his character’s exit was written into the show’s storyline. The handling of Rooster’s departure became a talking point among fans, with some feeling the ambiguity surrounding his fate was unsatisfying. While no definitive confirmation of his death was presented onscreen, the implication of foul play and the subsequent storyline heavily suggested it.
Rooster’s character had been a significant part of the show’s comedic dynamic and provided a counterpoint to his more responsible brother, Colt. His sudden disappearance left a void, and the remaining episodes of The Ranch grappled with the repercussions of his absence. The family dynamic shifted significantly, affecting the storylines of Beau, Maggie, and Colt.
The Aftermath and Impact on the Show
The episodes following “Last Dollar (Motor Oil)” explored the emotional impact of Rooster’s disappearance on the Bennett family, particularly Colt. While never explicitly stated that Rooster was dead, the actions and dialogue of the characters implied they had come to terms with his death, or at least his permanent absence. The unresolved nature of his fate created a sense of unease and lingering sadness throughout the remainder of the series.
The circumstances surrounding Masterson’s dismissal and Rooster’s subsequent storyline created a division among viewers. Some felt the show handled the situation responsibly, while others believed the ambiguous ending did not give the character or the audience adequate closure. The controversy undoubtedly impacted the overall reception of the later seasons of The Ranch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Rooster’s Exit
Here are some common questions about Rooster’s departure from The Ranch, addressed to provide further clarity and context:
1. Why did Danny Masterson leave The Ranch?
Danny Masterson was fired from The Ranch following multiple allegations of sexual assault. Netflix made the decision to remove him from the show after the allegations became public.
2. How was Rooster written off the show?
Rooster’s departure was addressed through a storyline involving his troubled relationship with Nick, Mary’s ex-boyfriend. Nick was a recurring antagonist, and his threats against Rooster culminated in a suspicious motorcycle accident that implied Nick’s involvement.
3. Did Rooster die in The Ranch?
The show never explicitly states that Rooster died. However, the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, coupled with the characters’ reactions and subsequent events, strongly suggest he is dead or presumed dead. The ambiguity allowed the show to avoid definitively confirming the character’s death while still addressing Masterson’s departure.
4. What episode does Rooster leave The Ranch?
Rooster’s last episode is Episode 5 of Part 6, titled “Last Dollar (Motor Oil).”
5. How did the other characters react to Rooster’s disappearance?
Colt was particularly affected by Rooster’s disappearance, initially clinging to hope that he was still alive. Beau and Maggie also grappled with the loss, each processing their grief in their own way. The family dynamic noticeably shifted, highlighting the impact of Rooster’s absence.
6. Did The Ranch address the allegations against Danny Masterson directly?
The Ranch did not directly address the allegations against Danny Masterson within the show’s narrative. The focus remained on the consequences of Rooster’s disappearance for the other characters and the Bennett family. The show chose to separate the real-world controversy from the fictional storyline.
7. Who is Nick, and what is his connection to Rooster’s disappearance?
Nick is Mary’s ex-boyfriend, a volatile and dangerous character. He repeatedly threatened Rooster and was the prime suspect in the events leading to his disappearance. Nick’s threatening behavior and past actions heavily implied his involvement in the motorcycle accident.
8. What impact did Rooster’s exit have on the show’s ratings?
The impact of Rooster’s exit on the show’s ratings is difficult to definitively quantify. Some viewers may have stopped watching in protest of Masterson’s dismissal, while others may have continued to watch out of loyalty to the show and the remaining cast. However, the controversy undoubtedly generated significant media attention, which could have influenced viewership.
9. Did the show ever explain why Rooster was not found if he simply ran away?
The show did not explicitly address the possibility of Rooster simply running away. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance, particularly Nick’s threats and the suspicious accident, strongly suggested foul play. The narrative deliberately steered away from a simple explanation of Rooster leaving on his own accord.
10. What other storylines were affected by Rooster’s departure?
Rooster’s departure significantly impacted Colt’s storyline, forcing him to confront his responsibilities and step up in Rooster’s absence. It also affected Maggie’s storyline, as she grappled with the potential loss of another son. The overall tone of the show became more somber, reflecting the weight of Rooster’s disappearance.
11. Were there any attempts to bring Danny Masterson back to The Ranch after his firing?
No, there were no attempts to bring Danny Masterson back to The Ranch after his firing. Netflix stood firm in its decision to remove him from the show, and his character’s exit was written into the storyline. The allegations against Masterson made his return untenable.
12. What other projects has Danny Masterson been involved in since his departure from The Ranch?
Following his departure from The Ranch and subsequent legal proceedings, Danny Masterson has faced significant challenges in securing new roles. The allegations against him have severely impacted his career. His professional future remains uncertain.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Controversy
Rooster Bennett’s time on The Ranch was marked by both humor and heart. However, his exit will forever be associated with the controversy surrounding Danny Masterson. While the character’s fate remains somewhat ambiguous, the impact of his departure on the show and its fans is undeniable. The Ranch attempted to navigate a difficult situation with its storyline, but the shadow of the real-world allegations inevitably cast a long shadow over the remaining episodes. The series ended with a focus on family resilience in the face of adversity, forever tinged with the unresolved question of what truly happened to Rooster.