The future of the Yellowstone franchise is unclear, especially with Kevin Costner, the show’s leading man, out of the picture.
The departure of Kevin Costner from Yellowstone marked a significant turning point for the popular Western TV series. As the patriarch John Dutton, Costner was the emotional core of the show, guiding viewers through the tumultuous lives of the Dutton family and their struggles to maintain control of their expansive Montana ranch.
However, after a year of rumors, Costner confirmed earlier this year that he would not return for the remainder of Season 5, a decision driven by scheduling conflicts and creative differences.
Costner’s departure was primarily fueled by his commitment to his own film project, Horizon, and disagreements with Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan.
Originally, Costner allegedly wanted a shortened filming schedule to accommodate both his film and the series, but this request reportedly created tension on set. Costner’s absence from Yellowstone has raised concerns among fans about whether the show can maintain its momentum and appeal without its most iconic character.
The upcoming release of the final episodes of Season 5, scheduled for November 10, 2024, will not feature Costner’s John Dutton, though his voice from previous episodes may be heard.
These episodes are expected to conclude some of the major storylines that have defined the show, including the intense feud between John’s children, Beth (Kelly Reilly) and Jamie (Wes Bentley). In a recently released teaser, the two siblings are seen exchanging heated words, further building anticipation for a dramatic showdown. However, with John Dutton no longer in the picture, the show’s future remains in question.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the show’s original cast, reports indicate that Yellowstone may not end after Season 5.
According to Deadline, there is a strong push to continue the series with Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser, who play fan-favorite characters Beth and Rip. Originally planned as a spinoff, their storyline may instead become the focus of a potential Season 6.
With their on-screen romance gaining traction among viewers, Beth and Rip’s relationship could take center stage as the new backbone of the series. While no official deal has been struck yet, the possibility of a Reilly-Hauser-led Yellowstone seems to be gaining momentum.
For fans of the broader Yellowstone universe, this may not be the only continuation of the saga. Sheridan has already expanded the series with spin-offs like 1883 and 1923, both of which delve into the earlier generations of the Dutton family.
These shows have been well-received, showcasing the same blend of high-stakes drama and stunning landscapes that made the original series a hit. Now, with even more spin-offs on the horizon, the Yellowstone universe is set to continue growing.
One of the most anticipated spin-offs is The Madison, a new series set in the Madison River Valley of Montana. This show, which will star three-time Academy Award nominee Michelle Pfeiffer, will explore themes of grief and human connection.
It’s a departure from the ranch-focused drama of Yellowstone, instead taking a more intimate look at the lives of New York City natives who have relocated to the wilds of Montana. Pfeiffer’s involvement is already generating buzz, and with Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan at the helm, fans are eager to see how this new chapter unfolds.
Joining Pfeiffer in The Madison will be Lost star Matthew Fox and Suits alum Patrick J. Adams, both of whom will play key roles in the series.
Fox, in particular, will portray a lead character opposite Pfeiffer, marking his return to television after a significant hiatus. The chemistry between the cast and Sheridan’s proven storytelling capabilities suggests that The Madison could become a strong addition to the ever-expanding Yellowstone universe.
But that’s not all. Sheridan is also working on another spinoff, Landman, which will star Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, and Billy Bob Thornton.
Based on the podcast Boomtown, Landman will follow an oil industry crisis manager in West Texas. While distinct from the Dutton family saga, Landman shares the gritty, high-stakes atmosphere that Sheridan is known for. Scheduled to debut in the fall, Landman promises to bring the same depth of character and tension that fans have come to expect from Sheridan’s work.
With all these developments, it’s clear that Yellowstone is far from finished.
What will be interesting, however, is if more stars elect to leave the show after Season 5 and follow in Costner’s footsteps, or if they’ll stick around for Season 6.
While Costner’s departure has undoubtedly shaken the show’s foundation, the potential for new leads and spin-offs offers hope that the universe will continue to thrive.