The final episode of The Ranch, titled “The Last Dollar (Part 2),” is episode 20 of Part 8, which was released on Netflix on January 24, 2020. It wraps up the saga of the Bennett family and their struggles to keep their family ranch afloat amidst personal and financial turmoil.
A Deep Dive into “The Last Dollar (Part 2)”
“The Last Dollar (Part 2)” serves as the culmination of the series’ core themes: family loyalty, perseverance in the face of adversity, and the ever-present challenges of small-town life. The episode is emotionally charged, providing closure (though perhaps not complete resolution for every character arc) and a sense of hopeful beginnings for the future. It focuses heavily on Colt and Abby’s journey as new parents, facing the financial realities of raising a family while dealing with the legacy of the Iron River Ranch. The looming foreclosure continues to cast a shadow, and the episode builds tension around whether the Bennetts can find a way to save their beloved property. It explores the complex dynamics between Beau and Colt, reflecting on their often-fraught relationship and the underlying respect they hold for each other.
The final scenes are deliberately bittersweet, leaving the audience with a sense of both nostalgia and optimism. While the ranch’s fate remains somewhat ambiguous (suggesting continued struggles but also the enduring spirit of the Bennett family), the episode focuses on the importance of family bonds and the determination to face whatever the future holds, together. The episode’s title, “The Last Dollar,” aptly captures the Bennetts’ financial desperation but also serves as a metaphor for their willingness to give everything they have for their family and their ranch. The final moments offer a glimpse into the next generation, highlighting the cyclical nature of life and the enduring legacy of the Iron River Ranch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Ranch’s Finale
What specifically happens with the Iron River Ranch in the last episode?
The last episode leaves the fate of the Iron River Ranch intentionally open-ended. While the Bennetts face the real possibility of foreclosure, they manage to secure a temporary reprieve. The ending implies that they will continue to fight for the ranch but doesn’t definitively state whether they succeed in the long run. This ambiguity allows viewers to interpret the ending based on their own perspectives, suggesting either continued hardship or a triumphant comeback fueled by family unity. The decision to leave the ranch’s fate uncertain serves to highlight the ongoing struggle and resilience of the Bennett family, rather than offering a neatly tied-up conclusion.
Why did The Ranch get cancelled after Part 8?
Several factors contributed to The Ranch‘s cancellation. One significant reason was the departure of Danny Masterson (Rooster Bennett) after allegations of sexual assault surfaced. While the show attempted to continue without him, his absence undeniably impacted the dynamic of the cast and the overall narrative. Furthermore, contractual obligations with Netflix likely played a role. Contract renewals can be complex and expensive, and Netflix might have decided that the viewership numbers didn’t justify the cost of continuing the series beyond Part 8. Creative decisions may have also been a factor, as writers struggled to effectively fill the void left by Masterson and maintain the original spark of the show.
What are the major character arcs that get resolved (or left unresolved) in the final episode?
Colt and Abby’s story is the most fully realized, showing them navigating parenthood and the challenges of their relationship. Beau’s character undergoes a significant transformation, demonstrating a softer side and a greater understanding of his family. The fate of the ranch is, as mentioned earlier, intentionally ambiguous. Heather’s character arc also shows growth, demonstrating independence and a desire to forge her own path. Maggie’s character is less prominent in the final episodes, but her enduring support for her family remains a constant. Although many threads are addressed, the departure of Rooster left a noticeable gap in closure for his character and his relationship with the rest of the Bennett family.
Does Rooster ever return to The Ranch after Danny Masterson’s departure?
No, Rooster Bennett does not return to The Ranch after Danny Masterson’s departure in Part 5. His character is written out of the show, with an explanation that he has left town and is possibly involved in some kind of legal trouble. The show does not bring back the character with a different actor, and his absence is felt throughout the remaining episodes. The decision to remove Rooster entirely reflects the severity of the allegations against Masterson and the show’s response to the controversy.
What happened to Mary’s character (Megyn Price) after Part 1?
Mary Roth, played by Megyn Price, does not appear in the later parts of The Ranch. Her character, Beau’s girlfriend, is mentioned but never seen after Part 1. The explanation given is that they broke up sometime after the events of Part 1. While the specific reasons for her absence are never fully explored on-screen, it’s likely due to a combination of storyline choices and budgetary considerations.
What is the significance of the title “The Last Dollar”?
As previously noted, “The Last Dollar” has dual meanings. On a literal level, it refers to the Bennetts’ dire financial situation and their desperate attempt to save the ranch. Figuratively, it symbolizes their willingness to give absolutely everything they have – their time, effort, resources, and emotional energy – for the sake of their family and their livelihood. The title underscores the themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the unwavering bond of family that are central to the series.
What is the overall tone or mood of the last episode?
The tone of the last episode is bittersweet and hopeful. While there are moments of sadness and anxiety related to the family’s financial struggles, the episode also emphasizes the importance of family unity and the potential for a brighter future. It’s a blend of nostalgia, optimism, and a touch of melancholy, reflecting the complex emotions associated with endings and new beginnings. The writers intentionally avoided a definitively happy or sad ending, opting instead for a nuanced and realistic portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of life.
Are there any cameos or special guest appearances in the final episode?
There are no significant cameos or special guest appearances in “The Last Dollar (Part 2)” that deviate from the established cast and recurring characters. The focus remains on the core Bennett family members and their immediate circle.
What are some of the recurring themes throughout The Ranch series that are highlighted in the last episode?
Recurring themes powerfully present in the last episode include:
- Family loyalty and forgiveness: Despite their differences and conflicts, the Bennetts always come together in times of need.
- The challenges of rural life: The struggles of small-town businesses and the economic hardships faced by ranchers are consistently depicted.
- The importance of tradition and heritage: The Bennett family’s deep connection to their land and their commitment to preserving their ranching legacy are central to the series.
- The complexities of father-son relationships: The dynamic between Beau and Colt is a recurring theme, explored with both humor and poignancy.
- Personal growth and redemption: Characters like Colt and Beau undergo significant transformations throughout the series, learning from their mistakes and striving to become better versions of themselves.
How does the final episode connect back to the earlier seasons of the show?
The final episode provides callbacks to earlier seasons by revisiting key relationships, referencing past events, and highlighting the characters’ growth over time. It reinforces the Bennetts’ enduring connection to their land, echoing the themes established in the initial episodes. The financial struggles mirroring the ranch’s past, and the family’s unwavering support for each other, established early in the series, are central to the final episode’s narrative.
What are some of the criticisms of the final season, or the ending itself?
Some criticisms of the final season centered on the handling of Rooster’s departure and the perceived decline in the show’s humor. Some viewers felt that the absence of Rooster significantly impacted the show’s dynamic and that the writers struggled to replace his comedic presence. Others criticized the ambiguity of the ending, arguing that it lacked a definitive resolution and left too many questions unanswered. However, many fans appreciated the realistic and nuanced portrayal of the Bennett family’s struggles and the overall emotional resonance of the final episodes.
Where can I watch The Ranch in its entirety?
The entire series of The Ranch, including “The Last Dollar (Part 2)”, is exclusively available for streaming on Netflix. You will need a valid Netflix subscription to access the show.