Cole Brings Plenty remembered in touching tribute after 1923 star's tragic death

The opening moments of Yellowstone 1923's second season paid a heartrending tribute to actor Cole Brings Plenty, known for his role as Pete Plenty Clouds. As viewers tuned in for the debut episode, they were greeted with Cole's image, styled after the show's iconic opening credits, alongside the poignant words 'In Memoriam'.

The series honoured the memory of Cole who tragically died at just 27 years old.

Cole was sadly discovered in Kansas in April 2024, after being reported missing when he didn't show up for an appointment with his agent. His body was located in a secluded wooded area following a police investigation into an abandoned vehicle.

Mo Brings Plenty, a fellow actor on Yellowstone and Cole's uncle, took to Instagram to confirm the devastating news.

He re-shared a message from Joe, Cole's father, which stated: "I am deeply saddened to confirm that my son, Cole, has been found and is no longer with us. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for the prayers and positive thoughts you sent for Cole."

The statement continued, beseeching for privacy: "During this incredibly difficult time, we ask for privacy as we process our grief and figure out how we move forward."

Moving tributes poured in from Cole's Yellowstone colleagues and others in the industry.

Artist Mark Maggiori expressed his condolences online, saying: "I loved [Cole]. May his journey to the other world be a good one. We will visit him later on... much love."

In a previous attempt to find Cole during the search, Mo had shared a missing person poster on Instagram, describing his nephew's disappearance as "uncharacteristic" behaviour.

The actor was known for his roles in 'The Tall Tales of Jim Bridger' and 'Into the Wild Frontier'. Authorities ruled out foul play in their investigation into his death.

Police Chief Rich Lockhart expressed his sorrow over the incident and acknowledged the need for better relations with the Native American community in Lawrence. TV Insider captured his sentiment: "I learned through this series of events that our police department must work harder to increase trust with our Native American community members."

He further admitted: "Through meeting with Cole's family members and members of our Native American community, I clearly see that we are not where we need to be in partnering with a community that is very important to Lawrence's history and to its current culture."

1923 airs on The Paramount Network and Paramount Plus on February 23