As the Yellowstone universe continues to expand, one of the most talked-about topics is the future of the iconic Dutton family in spinoffs. While the franchise has already given fans epic prequels with 1883 and 1923, there’s one story that fans are especially excited about: the upcoming spinoff focusing on the fiery romance of Beth and Rip.
However, there’s a challenge. Kevin Costner, who plays the rugged John Dutton, has been reported to be stepping away from the flagship show, leaving fans wondering who could possibly replace the iconic actor in a future Yellowstone prequel or spinoff.
While it’s a huge task to live up to Costner’s legendary portrayal, there are plenty of talented actors who could bring fresh energy to the Yellowstone spinoff. Here are 10 actors who could take on the role of a younger version of John Dutton and fill Costner’s boots with confidence.
1. Josh Brolin – A Powerful Choice for a Dutton Replacement
If there’s anyone who can channel the raw intensity of Kevin Costner, it’s Josh Brolin. Known for his work in films like No Country for Old Men, True Grit, and as Thanos in the Avengers franchise, Brolin’s commanding presence on screen would be a perfect match for the tough, no-nonsense demeanor of John Dutton. His rugged charm and ability to portray a complex character with depth make him a strong contender.
Why He Works: Brolin has the tough-guy persona needed for John Dutton and could easily carry the emotional weight of the character’s complex family dynamics. His gruff voice and gritty performances would provide an excellent foundation for the Dutton patriarch’s journey.
2. Matthew McConaughey – Bringing That Texan Swagger
Matthew McConaughey’s deep Texas roots, not to mention his iconic performances in films like The Lincoln Lawyer and Interstellar, make him an intriguing candidate for a spinoff. His understated charm and ability to navigate both humor and gravitas are qualities that would serve him well in portraying a younger John Dutton.
Why He Works: McConaughey’s natural charisma and gravitas make him the perfect actor to lead a prequel or spinoff. His southern swagger, paired with a penchant for complex characters, would resonate well with the audience, offering a fresh yet familiar take on the Dutton legacy.
3. Tom Hardy – A Fierce, Stoic Leader
Tom Hardy’s ability to convey a world-weary yet fierce character makes him another strong candidate for the role. From his role as Max in Mad Max: Fury Road to his portrayal of the fierce Eddie Brock in Venom, Hardy has shown that he can handle both physical and emotionally complex roles. Hardy would bring a quiet strength to John Dutton, making him a compelling choice.
Why He Works: Hardy is a master of playing intense, layered characters. His brooding intensity would give John Dutton the grit and inner turmoil needed to lead the Dutton family through its most challenging moments.
4. Bradley Cooper – The Charismatic Powerhouse
Bradley Cooper’s range as an actor is undeniable, from his hilarious turn in The Hangover trilogy to his intense and captivating roles in American Sniper and A Star is Born. His ability to portray a character’s vulnerability alongside raw power would make him an interesting fit as a younger John Dutton.
Why He Works: Cooper has the acting chops to bring complexity to John Dutton, showing the multifaceted nature of the character. His presence on screen is magnetic, making him a good candidate for a role that demands both strength and sensitivity.
5. Jeff Bridges – A Seasoned Veteran Who Could Command the Screen
Jeff Bridges, with his deep voice and weathered face, is known for playing rugged characters with a strong moral code. From The Big Lebowski to True Grit, his performances exude the kind of ruggedness and wisdom that would be a perfect fit for a John Dutton prequel.
Why He Works: Bridges’ career is full of characters who embody both a tough exterior and a deep well of emotion. His iconic performances would be a natural fit for a prequel that explores the founding of the Dutton family and their stronghold in Montana.
6. Chris Hemsworth – The Australian That Can Go All-American
Though he’s most famous for playing Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Chris Hemsworth has a versatility that has been showcased in films like In the Heart of the Sea and 12 Strong. His natural charisma and ability to play both powerful and vulnerable characters make him an intriguing choice for the role of a younger John Dutton.
Why He Works: Hemsworth has the rugged good looks and physicality needed to portray a younger Dutton, while his acting chops allow him to explore the emotional depth required for a role as complex as John Dutton.
7. Hugh Jackman – A Charming Yet Tough Leader
Hugh Jackman, known for his role as Wolverine in X-Men and his performances in The Greatest Showman, brings a unique combination of strength and charm to his characters. His powerful presence and capacity for vulnerability would allow him to delve deep into John Dutton’s complexities.
Why He Works: Jackman’s experience with playing multifaceted, tough leaders makes him a great choice for a role that requires both power and empathy. He can bring the right level of intensity to the role of John Dutton while keeping the character grounded in humanity.
8. Ryan Reynolds – The Unexpected Wild Card
Known primarily for his comedic chops, Ryan Reynolds has shown his ability to carry intense roles in films like Mississippi Grind and 6 Underground. His natural charm and humor could bring an interesting dynamic to a John Dutton prequel, especially when paired with a more serious tone.
Why He Works: Reynolds could bring a youthful energy to a younger John Dutton, injecting some humor into a character that, at times, could be brooding and serious. His transition from comedy to drama has been impressive, and he could surprise audiences with a more grounded, intense portrayal.
9. Charlie Hunnam – A Strong, Stoic Presence
Charlie Hunnam, famous for his role in Sons of Anarchy as Jax Teller, has already proven his ability to play complex, morally gray characters with a tough exterior and a tortured soul. His intensity and experience with roles in rugged environments make him an excellent candidate to take on John Dutton.
Why He Works: Hunnam has the ability to portray the struggle between toughness and vulnerability, which is a key trait for a younger John Dutton. His performance in Sons of Anarchy already shows that he could embody the physicality and emotional weight of a Dutton patriarch.
10. Michael Fassbender – A Quiet Intensity
Michael Fassbender has built a career on playing intense, often tortured characters. From Shame to 12 Years a Slave, his performances are filled with quiet power and a deep sense of internal conflict. He has the capability to portray John Dutton’s stoicism and inner turmoil with finesse.
Why He Works: Fassbender’s ability to convey complex emotions through minimalistic performances would make him a standout choice for a role that requires both external toughness and deep emotional complexity.
Conclusion: Who Will Fill Kevin Costner’s Boots?
Recasting a character as iconic as John Dutton is no small task, especially after Kevin Costner’s legendary portrayal in Yellowstone. However, there are several talented actors who could bring their own unique spin to the role, keeping the essence of the character intact while also adding their personal touch.
Whether it’s the seasoned veteran appeal of Jeff Bridges or the rugged intensity of Tom Hardy, these actors could all rise to the occasion and continue the Dutton legacy in the Yellowstone spinoff. No matter who ultimately lands the role, one thing is clear: the Dutton family saga will continue to captivate audiences long after Kevin Costner’s time as the patriarch comes to an end.
FAQs
1. Who will replace Kevin Costner in the Yellowstone spinoff? While there has been no official announcement, many actors, including Josh Brolin, Matthew McConaughey, and Tom Hardy, are rumored to be contenders for the role of a younger John Dutton.
2. Will the Yellowstone spinoff be about John Dutton’s early years? Yes, the spinoff will likely focus on John Dutton’s younger years, exploring the Dutton family’s rise to power and the origins of the family’s Montana ranch.
