With only a few episodes left in Season 1 of Dutton Ranch, few characters have generated as much debate as Oreana Jackson. Whether fans love her, hate her, or simply cannot figure out her true motives, the character has become one of the most talked-about figures in the Yellowstone spin-off.

Now, actress Natalie Alyn Lind is finally addressing one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding Oreana—and it could completely change how viewers interpret her relationship with Carter.

Speaking to PEOPLE, Lind revealed that the most surprising reaction she has seen from fans is the widespread belief that Oreana is a teenager.

According to the actress, that assumption is completely wrong.

“People keep talking about how they think my character is a high school student,” Lind explained. “A huge part of our storyline is that my character is older than Finn’s. My character is about 24 years old, and his character is about 19.”

That revelation may come as a shock to many viewers. Since Oreana’s introduction, a significant portion of the fandom assumed she was roughly the same age as Carter, or even younger. The misunderstanding fueled countless online discussions about the pair’s romance and the power dynamics within their relationship.

Lind admitted she has found the confusion amusing.

“It’s the funniest thing I’ve seen from fans,” she said, adding that viewers will likely understand more about Oreana as the story continues.

The actress also hinted that there is much more to Oreana than audiences have seen so far. While many fans currently view her as manipulative, unpredictable, or even outright villainous after recent events involving Carter and the Jackson family, Lind believes those reactions are exactly what the creative team intended.

“I love when people love my character, and I also love when people hate my character,” she said. “Because it means we’re doing something right.”

Oreana has become increasingly controversial following the events of Episode 7. Her apparent betrayal of Carter, support for Rob-Will Jackson’s growing influence, and celebration of key family developments have led many viewers to question where her loyalties truly lie.

Some fans believe Oreana has fully embraced her father’s side, while others suspect she may be playing a much deeper game.

Lind suggested that future episodes—or a potential second season—could provide important context.

She specifically expressed hope that viewers will eventually learn more about Oreana’s complicated history with her father, Jai Courtney’s Rob-Will Jackson.

According to Lind, the strained relationship between father and daughter is central to understanding the character.

“I hope Season 2 can dive deeper into why Rob-Will and Oreana are so messed up,” she teased. “Everything will make sense eventually.”

The actress also described Oreana and Carter’s relationship as a reflection of younger versions of Beth and Rip, though with a very different emotional foundation.

Lind explained that Oreana’s difficult upbringing effectively robbed her of a normal childhood. Carter, meanwhile, brings out a side of her that viewers rarely see.

“She’s terrified of accepting love,” Lind said. “And Carter brings out the youthfulness in Oreana. She never really had that innocence growing up.”

That perspective adds another layer to one of the show’s most polarizing storylines. While some viewers remain skeptical of Oreana’s intentions, others have begun reconsidering her actions in light of the emotional trauma hinted at throughout the season.

As Dutton Ranch approaches its final episodes, Oreana remains one of the series’ biggest mysteries. And if Lind’s comments are any indication, the character’s age, motivations, and complicated family history may be far more important to the overall story than fans initially realized.

With speculation about a potential Season 2 continuing to grow, viewers may eventually get the answers they have been waiting for. Until then, Oreana Jackson remains one of the most divisive—and intriguing—characters on television.