Yellowstone Season 6: What’s Next for the Duttons?
Yellowstone Season 6: What’s Next for the Dutton Universe?
There won’t be a Yellowstone Season 6 — the original series officially ended with Season 5. However, the Dutton legacy continues through new spinoffs. While Kevin Costner has exited the franchise and John Dutton’s story has come to a close, the world of Yellowstone is far from over.
Now, the spotlight shifts to Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler, who are leading the next chapter in a brand-new series.
Is Yellowstone Season 6 Happening?
No — Yellowstone will not return for a sixth season. Season 5 marked the end of the main storyline on Paramount Network. However, fans can look forward to a new series starring Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton) and Cole Hauser (Rip Wheeler), which will continue the narrative in a new format.
This isn’t a reboot or a remake — it’s a continuation in the same universe, still helmed by series creator Taylor Sheridan.
What Comes After Season 5?
Although the main show has wrapped, the story of the Dutton family will live on through new projects. Paramount is now focusing on a sequel series centered around Beth and Rip as they start a new chapter.
- New setting: The couple relocates, and their new life becomes the heart of the spinoff.
- New title: The series is not Yellowstone Season 6, but it continues the same universe.
- Filming location: Production has begun in Ferris, Texas.
- Showrunner: Taylor Sheridan remains the creative force behind the series.
Release Date and Where to Watch
An official release date hasn’t been confirmed, but industry reports suggest a premiere in late 2025. While it’s not yet clear where the show will stream, it’s likely to land on Paramount+, as with other series in the Sheridanverse.
Who’s in the Cast?
The sequel series features a mix of returning characters and new faces:
Confirmed Cast:
- Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton
- Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler
- Finn Little as Carter
Possible Returning Characters:
- Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton (appearing in Y: Marshals)
- Gil Birmingham as Thomas Rainwater
- Mo Brings Plenty as Mo
- Brecken Merrill as Tate Dutton
Not Returning:
- Kevin Costner (John Dutton) has officially left the franchise due to creative differences.
- Wes Bentley (Jamie Dutton) – The character’s arc ended in Season 5.
- Other exits include Lloyd (Forrie J. Smith) and Colby (Denim Richards), though they haven’t been officially confirmed as gone.
What Happened to John Dutton?
In Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2, John Dutton dies in the opening episode. His death — staged to look like a suicide — is linked to the betrayal by Jamie Dutton and Sarah Atwood. This pivotal moment marks the end of John’s story and the beginning of a new era for the Dutton family.
Why Did Kevin Costner Leave?
Kevin Costner’s exit was due to:
- Creative differences with Taylor Sheridan
- Scheduling conflicts caused by his film project Horizon
- Contract issues and disputes over the direction of the show
- Personal reasons, which surfaced during his divorce proceedings
Despite discussions about returning, Costner confirmed on social media that he will not appear in any future Yellowstone projects.
Is Yellowstone Based on a True Story?
While Yellowstone is fictional, it draws heavily from real ranch life. Taylor Sheridan owns a ranch and uses authentic experiences to shape the storylines.
Realistic Elements:
- Filming location: Chief Joseph Ranch in Montana doubles as the Dutton Ranch.
- Story inspiration: Characters and themes are based on real-life ranchers, land disputes, and family dynamics.
Fictionalized Aspects:
- The violence, shootouts, and political scheming are exaggerated for drama.
- Critics have pointed out that some Indigenous characters are portrayed with limited nuance.
What’s Next in the Yellowstone Universe?
Even though the original series has ended, the Yellowstone universe continues to expand:
- Beth and Rip’s sequel series (title TBD)
- Y: Marshals with Kayce Dutton
- 6666, centered around the legendary Four Sixes Ranch
These shows will deepen the mythology of the Dutton family and explore new characters and conflicts under Taylor Sheridan’s direction.
