“1883” takes viewers on a thrilling journey that sheds light on the hardships of life in the 19th century American West. The series’ narrative is powered by intriguing characters who each add a different dimension to the story. One such character is the trailer’s cook, Cookie (James Jordan), whose presence has been a welcome addition to the group.
However, the penultimate episode of the first season will leave fans worrying about the fate of the character as the caravan clashes with the Lakota people, a Native American tribe. If you’re wondering what happens to Cookie and whether recent developments will lead to actor James Jordan’s exit from the show, here’s everything you need to know! SPOILERS AHEAD!
Is Cookie dead?
Viewers first meet Cookie in the series’ sixth episode titled “Boring the Devil.” He is a cook and camps at Doan’s Crossing, where Thomas meets him. Thomas offers Cookie to cook for the caravan. Cookie is a jolly but rude guy who accepts the offer after laying out his terms. Thus, Cookie joins the caravan on their journey. In the seventh episode, Cookie survives the storm by getting a head start and saving the group’s precious supplies.
The ninth episode titled “Racing Clouds” brings the group into conflict with the Native American Lakota tribe. The caravan arrives at a campsite where horse thieves have murdered some Lakota. The tracks of the caravan inadvertently merge with those of the horse thieves. So the tribe tracks down the caravan and attacks them. Instead of waiting to clear up the misunderstanding, Cookie takes the caravan to Fort Caspar, making the situation even worse. Soon, Cookie finds himself overrun by the tribesmen who shoot arrows at him. Cookie tries to fight back but fails. He falls from his cart and is shot several times, resulting in his death.
Did James Jordan leave 1883?
In season 1 of ‘1883’, actor James Jordan appears in a recurring capacity as Cookie. Jordan is a frequent collaborator with series creator Taylor Sheridan. He is known for his performances as Ben in “Those Who Wish Me Dead” and Pete Mickens in “Wind River”, both directed by Sheridan. Jordan is also one of the few actors to appear in both “Yellowstone” and “1883,” which is a prequel to the old show.
Jordan’s character Cookie, while an intriguing character, is not integral to the overall narrative of the series. With Cookie’s abrupt and tragic demise, it seems Jordan’s time on the show is over. Jordan appears in four episodes of the series and delivers a memorable performance as Cookie. The character’s tendency to act alone is evident throughout his arc, and it turns out to be the reason for Cookie’s death. Also, Cookie’s death deals another blow to the caravan as they now have to go on without a cook.
Overall, Cookie fulfills her narrative purpose, and the character’s arc ends with her death. Although the series has been renewed for a second season, it’s hard to imagine Jordan returning as Cookie in future episodes. Therefore, it’s safe to say that Jordan left the show, with the ninth episode of Season 1 marking his final appearance.
Read more: Did Sam and Elsa separate in 1883?
