The answer is a resounding yes: the world of *Yellowstone* is not just expanding—it's exploding into an entire cinematic universe that spans over a century of American history. As of December 12, 2025, the story of the Dutton family and their sprawling Montana ranch is set to continue with multiple confirmed prequels, sequels, and spin-off series, all masterminded by creator Taylor Sheridan. This deep dive will break down every confirmed and rumored project, providing the most up-to-date information on cast, plot, and expected release dates for the next chapters of the Dutton saga.
The original *Yellowstone* series, which follows the contemporary struggles of John Dutton (Kevin Costner) to protect his land, has already spawned the critically acclaimed prequels *1883* and *1923*. Now, the focus shifts to both the past and the future, introducing new eras and fan-favorite characters in their own dedicated series. Fans eager for more neo-Western drama, high-stakes political conflict, and the rugged beauty of the American West have a full slate of content to look forward to.
The Dutton Family Saga: Prequels and Historical Series
Taylor Sheridan’s vision for the *Yellowstone* universe is a historical epic, meticulously charting the Dutton family’s arrival and subsequent fight to keep their land. With *1883* covering the initial journey and *1923* exploring the challenges of the Great Depression, the next confirmed prequel will jump forward again to a new, pivotal era.
1. 1944: The World War II Era Prequel
The next confirmed historical installment in the Dutton family timeline is *1944*. This series is expected to bridge the significant gap between the events of *1923* and the modern-day *Yellowstone* series. The focus will likely center on the generation of Duttons who lived through World War II, a period of massive social and economic change for the American West.
- Timeline: Set during or immediately following World War II.
- Plot Focus: The challenges of the war, the return of soldiers, and how these global events impacted the operation and ownership of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch.
- Status: Officially confirmed as the next prequel installment.
2. The Madison (Formerly Titled '2024')
Initially referred to as *2024*, this project is now officially titled *The Madison* and serves as a direct sequel to the main *Yellowstone* series. It is expected to take place immediately after the conclusion of the flagship show and will introduce a new branch of the Dutton family or a new set of characters fighting over the vast Montana land. This series is a massive power move for the franchise, securing A-list talent for its lead roles.
- Key Cast: Michelle Pfeiffer, Patrick J. Adams, Kurt Russell, and Matthew Fox are all attached to star.
- Plot Focus: A contemporary narrative that brings a new approach to the conflict over Montana’s land and resources.
- Expected Debut: Likely to debut in 2026.
Direct Sequels and Spin-Offs Featuring Fan-Favorite Characters
The biggest news for dedicated fans of the original series is the confirmation of two spin-offs that will follow beloved characters from the flagship show, effectively continuing their stories after the events of the main series finale.
3. The Dutton Ranch (The Beth and Rip Sequel)
The tumultuous and passionate relationship between Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) is one of the pillars of the *Yellowstone* universe. Their story will continue in a direct sequel series currently known as *The Dutton Ranch*. This spin-off will follow the fan-favorite couple as they navigate their next chapter.
- Returning Cast: Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton) and Cole Hauser (Rip Wheeler) are confirmed to reprise their roles.
- New Cast: The project has added major star power, including five-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening and Ed Harris, signaling the high production value and narrative weight of the series.
- Plot Focus: While specific details are scarce, the series is expected to track Beth and Rip’s lives following the conclusion of *Yellowstone*, likely exploring new territory and new conflicts outside of the immediate Yellowstone Ranch.
4. Y: Marshals (The Kayce Dutton Spin-Off)
Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) is set to lead his own procedural crime drama, *Y: Marshals*, which will be broadcast on CBS. This series will follow Kayce in his next chapter, presumably using his background as a former Navy SEAL and livestock agent to enforce justice in the American West.
- Returning Cast: Luke Grimes is confirmed to return as Kayce Dutton.
- Genre: A procedural crime drama, shifting the tone slightly from the neo-Western family epic.
- Confirmed Release Date: *Y: Marshals* has a confirmed premiere date of Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.
The Status of Other Yellowstone Universe Projects
Beyond the confirmed series, the Taylor Sheridan universe has several other projects that have been discussed, rumored, or are currently on hold. These projects add significant topical authority to the franchise, demonstrating the depth of Sheridan's world-building.
The 6666 Ranch Series (On Hold Indefinitely)
One of the most anticipated spin-offs, *6666* (or *Four Sixes*), was set to focus on the legendary 6666 Ranch in Texas, which Taylor Sheridan himself purchased in 2021. The series would explore the day-to-day life of cowboys on this historic, massive ranch. However, the project is currently on hold indefinitely.
Sheridan has reportedly put the series on the back burner due to the immense logistical challenges of filming on the actual, working ranch, as well as his commitment to the other multiple confirmed projects. While not officially scrapped, its development is paused. This means fans hoping for a Jimmy Hurdstrom (Jefferson White) return will have to wait, as he was expected to be a key character in this spin-off.
Lawman: Bass Reeves (Completed Limited Series)
While not a direct Dutton family prequel, *Lawman: Bass Reeves* is officially part of the *Yellowstone* universe, sharing the same creative DNA and themes of justice and the American frontier. The limited series, starring David Oyelowo, has already aired and tells the true story of the legendary U.S. Deputy Marshal Bass Reeves. This show demonstrates Sheridan's ambition to tell diverse stories within the Western genre, further cementing the topical authority of the franchise.
The sheer number of confirmed and upcoming series—*1944*, *The Madison*, *The Dutton Ranch*, and *Y: Marshals*—confirms that the *Yellowstone* universe is one of the most ambitious and expansive franchises in modern television. By focusing on both the historical origins and the contemporary aftermath of the Dutton family’s struggle, Taylor Sheridan is ensuring that the legacy of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch will dominate the television landscape for years to come. Fans should prepare for a massive influx of new content, new characters, and the continuation of beloved storylines.
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