This 'Yellowstone' actor has stirred up controversy on multiple occasions, ranging from being removed from a flight to his refusal to receive a vaccination.
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Paramount's 'Yellowstone' may have concluded with mixed reviews, but its legacy will undoubtedly live on. While the Western neo-drama series is highly celebrated for its top-notch storyline and action-packed performances, it has also sparked its fair share of controversy. One notable moment came when a fan-favorite character’s political views became a hot-button issue for many fans.
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The actor in question is Forrie J Smith, who played the role of the oldest rancher, Lloyd Pierce, in 'Yellowstone'. While his character was beloved by fans, Smith’s real-life reputation hasn’t been as well received. In recent years, he’s faced his share of controversies, making him one of the most talked-about actors from the show. In March 2024, Smith took to Instagram to vent his frustration after being removed from a flight in Houston. According to Click2Houston, the incident occurred when he refused to sit next to a passenger wearing a mask. In a video posted soon after, the 65-year-old actor expressed his disbelief and irritation, saying, "I just got kicked off a plane, and, uh, where the hell am I at?"
Smith elaborated that the flight crew claimed he was intoxicated, a charge he strongly refuted. "I'm not drunk, yet they remove me from the plane under the assumption that I am, all because no one has the guts to speak up about this nonsense," he stated. In the same video, Smith conceded that he had consumed alcohol but explained that it was a result of the lengthy wait he experienced at the airport. "I've been stuck in an airport for three hours. Of course, I'm drinking," he confessed. Nevertheless, he insisted that his actions were not improper and attributed the situation to the airline’s policies and choices.
This isn’t the first time Smith’s controversial stance has made headlines. He also chose not to attend the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, citing his refusal to follow Covid-related rules. Smith explained his decision in a video posted on Instagram, as reported by Variety. The real-life rodeo explained that his refusal to get vaccinated is the primary factor behind his absence and said, "I want to apologize to y’all for not being at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. I mean no offence to anyone. I'm not vaccinated, and it's a requirement to be vaccinated."
Smith solidified his viewpoint by stating, "I’m not vaccinated, and I refuse to get vaccinated," highlighting his consistent beliefs on the matter. He elaborated on his anti-vaccination stance, mentioning, "I haven’t received any vaccinations since childhood. I don’t vaccinate my dogs or my horses. I’ve never taken a flu shot, and I never intend to." He clarified his perspective, saying, "I think they weaken your immune system. These are just my beliefs. I simply don’t subscribe to that idea. Whatever." While he maintained that he meant no disrespect to anyone, his remarks continue to generate debate among the public.
