Kelly Reilly Reveals John’s Absence Was Always Part of Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone Finale

While many details about the ending of Yellowstone remain under wraps, one key element is clear: Kevin Costner will not return as family patriarch John Dutton.

What ultimately happens to John is being kept a secret, alongside developments between Beth (Kelly Reilly) and Jamie (Wes Bentley). However, Kelly Reilly assures fans that John’s absence was always part of the conclusion that creator Taylor Sheridan envisioned from the very beginning. “The absence was part of the ending,” Reilly told Entertainment Weekly. “That wasn’t something we had to change; it was already woven into the fabric of the story. It was always going to happen, just in a slightly different way.”

Reilly has known the series’ ending since Sheridan first shared his vision during season one. Initially, he planned for the show to span five seasons, but due to its immense popularity, the network pushed for more. “He always had a five-season arc in mind, but the show’s success led to changes,” Reilly explained. “In a way, fate guided us to end Yellowstone as he always intended.”

When the first half of season five premiered in early 2023, viewers had no idea they were witnessing the beginning of the final season. This was compounded by delays linked to Costner’s schedule and script issues, along with the SAG and WGA strikes. Now, with the series set to return on November 10, it will conclude without Costner. Luke Grimes, who portrays Kayce Dutton, previously hinted that fans should expect a “very, very profound, beautiful ending” to the beloved series.

For those eager for more from the Yellowstone universe, a new present-day spinoff titled The Madison is in development, featuring Michelle Pfeiffer, Matthew Fox, and Patrick J. Adams. Additionally, there’s another prequel series titled 1944 and a second season of 1923. Discussions are also underway for potential new stories featuring familiar characters from the flagship show.

Regardless of what the future holds, Reilly expressed her gratitude for how Yellowstone is concluding. “We got to end it the way Taylor always envisioned. It’s a real gift,” she shared.

Fans will discover the full scope of the series’ conclusion when Yellowstone premieres its final season on Sunday, November 10, on Paramount Network (and CBS).