When Netflix’s The Ranch returned with Part 6, it provided fans with the long-awaited answer about Rooster Bennett’s fate. Rooster, played by Danny Masterson, was a key character in the show, but his departure became a mystery after Masterson’s firing in December 2017 following accusations of sexual assault. Although he denied the allegations, Netflix decided to part ways with him.
In Part 5 of The Ranch, Rooster’s disappearance was left unresolved. His last moments on the show were tied to a threat made by Mary’s ex-con boyfriend, Nick, which led to Rooster’s sudden vanishing. The trailer for Part 6, which was released in November, hinted at his absence as Colt (Ashton Kutcher), Rooster’s brother, mentioned that he was missing. However, the truth was far more somber than expected.
The sixth season confirmed that Rooster was presumed dead after authorities found his motorcycle at the bottom of a cliff. It appeared that he had been speeding and went over a guardrail. Colt, struggling to accept the loss, refused to believe his brother was truly gone. He held onto the hope that Rooster had faked his death, possibly due to Nick’s involvement.
Colt’s search for answers led him to track Rooster’s credit card, which took him to a motel. However, the motel owner confirmed that Rooster hadn’t been seen in days, further deepening the mystery. Just as Colt uncovered this, authorities informed Beau (Sam Elliott) and Maggie (Debra Winger) that the search-and-recovery team was working to locate Rooster’s remains. With heavy hearts, they came to terms with the tragic loss and began planning a memorial service.
While Beau and Maggie accepted the reality of their son’s death, Colt was still in denial. At home, he found a package that Rooster had sent before his disappearance. Inside were a onesie for Colt’s unborn daughter, a note thanking Colt for all he had done, and a sign that read “Bennett Brothers Ranch.” This emotional package marked a heartbreaking moment in the show.
In the end, Colt eulogized Rooster, and the family gathered to toast to his memory at Maggie’s bar, acknowledging the pain and loss while celebrating Rooster’s life and the bond the brothers shared. The departure of Rooster marked a significant turning point for the show, both in terms of the storyline and the real-life circumstances surrounding Masterson’s exit.
