Yellowstone never misses an opportunity to pay tribute to real-life characters, and the finale, “Life Is a Promise,” includes a final salute to a true Western legend.

If you keep your eyes open, you’ll find references to Western culture throughout Taylor Sheridan’s drama series. From real cowboys to rodeo stars, there are often plenty of familiar faces for those who know what they’re looking at.

The Yellowstone series finale features a tribute to Bob Avila, a famous character who appeared in an even earlier episode. A true equestrian through and through, it’s no surprise that he would become a part of Yellowstone’s history.

Who is Bob Avila and what is his connection to the show?

Who is Bob Avila?

Bob Avila was a true western legend, professional horseman and member of the American Quarter House Hall of Fame.

He died on November 10, 2024, and the fifth season finale of Yellowstone is dedicated to his memory.

He was widely known as one of the best riders in the industry as he came from an equestrian family. He won over 37 championship titles over the years and was inducted into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame in 2020.

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He won the NRCHA World Greatest Horseman title in 2000 and 2007. Since then, he has also published two books: “Be a Smart Horse Buyer: A Guide to Avoiding Common Mistakes and Finding the Right Horse for You” and “Win ​​With Bob Avila: Beyond Training, Mentoring from a World Champion Horseman.” .

His family life prepared him to work with horses, as his father was a rodeo cowboy and trainer and his mother taught riding lessons.

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Avila also previously appeared in a cameo appearance as himself in the third season’s Yellowstone episode “I Killed a Man Today.” He can be seen in the background on a horse and later briefly chats with John Dutton and his grandson Tate.

The final episode of Yellowstone features a dedication card to Avila at the beginning that reads, “This episode is dedicated to Bob Avila. See you on the dusty path, amigo.”

How did Bob Avila die?

Avila’s cause of death was not publicly disclosed, although he died at the age of 72 while competing in the American Quarter Horse Association World Championships.

Shortly after, AQHA posted a tribute to Avila on its Instagram, writing: “The AQHA family has lost a legend. Bob Avila, AQHA Professional Horseman and member of the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, passed away today at the age of 72.

“Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Dana, his son BJ Avila and the rest of the Avila family and their extended AQHA family.”

Learn more about Yellowstone’s tributes to Billy Klapper and Melanie Olmstead. You can also see what’s going on with future spin-offs like 6666 and The Madison.