Yellowstone Season 6: Since its debut in 2018, Yellowstone has taken the TV world by storm, quickly becoming one of Paramount Network’s flagship shows. Created by Taylor Sheridan, this modern-day Western drama not only captivated viewers but also revitalized Kevin Costner’s career. He plays John Dutton, the tough, no-nonsense head of the Dutton family, who controls the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch—one of Montana’s largest and most influential estates. The show has become a cultural phenomenon, blending family drama with breathtaking landscapes and high-stakes conflict.
Season five of Yellowstone kicked off in 2022, but soon after, uncertainty surrounded the show’s future. Rumors began circulating that Kevin Costner, who has been at the helm of the series as John Dutton, was preparing to exit. Meanwhile, Paramount Network announced plans for a Yellowstone spin-off, set to continue the saga without Costner’s involvement. If you’re wondering what’s next for the franchise, here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about Yellowstone’s future.
Is a Sixth Season of Yellowstone Coming?
Until August 2024, it seemed like Yellowstone Season 5 would bring the story to a close. But it looks like Paramount Network isn’t ready to say goodbye just yet. New reports from Deadline reveal that the network is in active discussions with Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser to headline a possible sixth season, keeping the Dutton family’s saga alive for at least a little longer.
Kelly Reilly, who brings Beth Dutton to life, and Cole Hauser, who plays the Dutton family ranch foreman, Rip Wheeler, have been key players on Yellowstone since day one. Given that both characters are deeply rooted in the original series and not directly involved with the new characters from the upcoming spinoff, Madison, it makes sense for them to be central to a potential Season 6. While nothing has been finalized yet, and there’s no official timeline for when filming will begin, it’s clear that Kevin Costner won’t be returning to the show.
Does the second part of Yellowstone season 5 mark the final chapter of the series?
As we’ve seen from the episodes of Yellowstone season 5 part 2, it feels like the show is gearing up for a real conclusion, rather than setting the stage for another season. In a recent chat with Variety, executive producer Christina Alexandra Voros described the finale as “the end of an era.” However, she didn’t entirely rule out the chance that the story could continue in some form.
“I truly think this last set of episodes marks the end of an era,” Voros said. “It’s tough to go into too much detail without spoiling what’s coming next, but Taylor [Sheridan] has pulled off something really impressive. The way he’s built toward the ending is both surprising and yet feels completely inevitable at the same time. To really appreciate the entire journey, you’ll need to see how it all comes together in the end.”
What Are Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser Saying About the Season 6 Rumors?
In a recent interview with US Magazine, Cole Hauser seemed to hint that the end of the road may be near. “It’s been an amazing experience working with everyone,” he said. “You’ll have to wait until November to see how Taylor [Sheridan] wraps things up!”
On the other hand, Kelly Reilly was more receptive to the idea of continuing the story when she spoke with Entertainment Weekly, leaving the door slightly open for what’s next.
“Nothing is finalized,” Reilly explained. “But if Taylor wants to continue, I’d definitely want to be a part of it. He’s the one who brought Beth to life, and every word I’ve said has come from his writing. But we both understand that things have to evolve. You can’t repeat the same story endlessly. The Yellowstone we know is coming to a close, but if there’s more to tell with these characters, it will need to feel fresh and different.”
Who’s Joining the Cast of Yellowstone Season 6?
Reports suggest that Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser are in discussions with Paramount about reprising their roles as Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler for a possible sixth season of Yellowstone. Unfortunately, Kevin Costner, who played John Dutton, will not be returning, as his character’s story has come to a definitive end with his death in the show.
Who returns for Yellowstone season 6 will depend on how the high-stakes drama of season 5 plays out. If the storyline allows, we can expect to see familiar faces like Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton, Wes Bentley as Jamie Dutton, Kelsey Asbille as Monica Long Dutton, Forrie J. Smith as Lloyd Pierce, Ian Bohen as Ryan, and Ryan Bingham as Walker. The fate of each character will be determined by the intense battles that unfold in the upcoming season.
What Can We Expect from the Plot of Yellowstone Season 6?
If Yellowstone Season 6 is given the green light, it will dive deeper into the aftermath of the shocking events from Season 5. The season primarily deals with the devastating consequences of John Dutton’s unexpected death. While Beth directs her anger at Jamie, blaming him for their father’s murder, the real puppet master behind it all turns out to be Sarah Atwood, his manipulative girlfriend.
After John’s shocking death, the Dutton siblings are left grappling with deep betrayal and overwhelming grief. Kayce and Beth unite to protect their family’s future and the ranch, especially with Tate, Kayce’s son, now holding the inheritance. Rip plays a crucial role, standing by Beth’s side to help her through the heartbreak. Even with John no longer around, the Duttons are committed to ensuring their legacy endures at Yellowstone in a possible Season 6.