If you’re a Yellowstone fan, you’re probably already aware that the hit series has expanded into a universe of its own, with several spin-offs on the way. With the show’s success, it’s no surprise that the Dutton family’s saga continues in multiple exciting directions. But with so many spin-offs in the works, it can be hard to keep track. What should you be most excited about? Which spin-off is the most anticipated?
In this article, we’ll rank every Yellowstone spin-off coming soon, so you can know exactly what to look out for and why you should be excited about each one. Let’s dive in!
Why Are Yellowstone Spin-Offs So Popular?
The Appeal of the Dutton Family
Yellowstone, created by Taylor Sheridan, has captured audiences with its gripping storytelling, complex characters, and stunning cinematography. The story of the Dutton family—led by the tough and often morally ambiguous John Dutton (played by Kevin Costner)—has resonated with viewers, becoming a cultural phenomenon.
The Dutton family’s land battles, power struggles, and survival against the backdrop of the modern American West have made Yellowstone a must-watch. But what really has fans on the edge of their seats are the spin-offs that take us into different periods of the Dutton family’s past, exploring how they built their empire and the challenges they faced along the way.
Expanding the Universe
The Yellowstone universe isn’t just expanding in terms of storyline—it’s opening up entirely new narratives that capture different time periods and characters, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic family. From the Old West to the early 20th century, these spin-offs allow us to explore a broader, richer world.
1. 1923 – A Glimpse Into the Dutton Family’s Past
What is 1923 About?
1923, the latest addition to the Yellowstone universe, is set to premiere in December 2022. It serves as a prequel to Yellowstone and is set in the early 20th century. This spin-off will delve into the Dutton family’s struggle to hold onto their land and legacy during the turbulent times of Prohibition, the Great Depression, and the aftermath of World War I.
Why It’s Most Anticipated:
- New Cast, Same Legacy: With a star-studded cast including Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, 1923 has raised the stakes even higher. Ford plays Jacob Dutton, the new patriarch of the family, while Mirren takes on the role of his wife, Cara. Their powerful performances promise to add a new layer of drama and intrigue to the Dutton dynasty.
- Historical Context: This spin-off provides fans with the historical backdrop that influenced the Dutton family’s fortunes, giving viewers a deeper understanding of what shaped the characters in Yellowstone.
Why It’s Ranked Number 1
As the newest installment, 1923 is incredibly anticipated by fans eager to learn more about the Dutton family’s roots. The combination of historical context, beloved actors, and the foundation it builds for the Yellowstone series makes it the top contender on our list.
2. 1883 – The Origins of the Dutton Family
What is 1883 About?
1883 is the first spin-off of Yellowstone and premiered in 2021. This series takes us even further back in time, following the Dutton family’s journey as they migrate westward in search of land and a better future. The story focuses on James Dutton (played by Tim McGraw) and his wife, Margaret (Faith Hill), along with their children, as they brave the dangerous journey to Montana.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Incredible Performances: McGraw and Hill’s performances as the Dutton patriarch and matriarch are powerful and emotional, grounding the series in the harsh realities of the late 19th century.
- Epic Scale: 1883 captures the true spirit of the American frontier, with wide, sweeping shots of the wilderness and intense moments of survival. It’s an intense and dramatic depiction of what it took to carve out a new life in an untamed land.
Why It’s Ranked Number 2
While 1883 set the stage for Yellowstone spin-offs, its heart-pounding moments and emotional depth place it as a close contender for the number one spot. It offers viewers a front-row seat to the challenges and sacrifices the Dutton family made in their early years.
3. 1883: The Bass Reeves Story – A New Hero in the Old West
What is 1883: The Bass Reeves Story About?
Set as a companion piece to 1883, this spin-off will explore the life of Bass Reeves, the legendary African-American lawman in the Indian Territory of Oklahoma. Reeves was known for his bravery, skill, and unwavering commitment to justice, making him a perfect figure to explore in this Yellowstone-adjacent world.
Why It’s Exciting:
- Historical Figure: Bass Reeves is a captivating historical figure whose story has been largely overlooked in Western narratives. The series promises to highlight his incredible legacy as one of the first Black U.S. Marshals.
- Strong Lead: David Oyelowo, known for his roles in Selma and The Butler, will portray Bass Reeves, bringing depth and gravitas to the character.
Why It’s Ranked Number 3
While 1883: The Bass Reeves Story is still in development, the excitement surrounding this series is palpable. The opportunity to bring a forgotten hero’s story to life within the Yellowstone universe makes it highly anticipated. The unique perspective and thrilling action are enough to put it in our top three.
4. 6666 – The Modern-Day Western
What is 6666 About?
6666 is set on the famous 6666 Ranch in Texas, which has long been associated with Yellowstone lore. The ranch is known for its cowboy tradition, and the spin-off will focus on the day-to-day workings of the ranch in the present day. It’s a story of ranch life, tough decisions, and the drama that unfolds when a legacy of tradition meets modern challenges.
Why It’s Intriguing:
- Ranch Life Drama: 6666 brings the grit and determination of ranch life to the forefront. It focuses on hard-working cowboys, family struggles, and the deep-seated history of the ranch.
- Expansion of the Yellowstone Universe: By connecting to the larger Yellowstone world, this spin-off promises to expand the reach of the franchise beyond the Dutton family and offer a fresh perspective on ranching culture.
Why It’s Ranked Number 4
While 6666 is still in its early stages, its focus on real-world ranching makes it an exciting prospect for fans who are drawn to the Yellowstone universe’s connection to Western life. The drama and culture of ranching could give it a unique, long-lasting appeal.
5. Y: 1883 – A Prequel to Yellowstone?
What is Y: 1883 About?
Y: 1883 takes place even before 1883, focusing on a completely different set of characters—those who helped shape the Dutton family’s history. It will explore the pioneer spirit and the early American frontier that paved the way for the eventual Yellowstone empire.
Why It’s Interesting:
- Further Exploration of the Dutton Legacy: While Y: 1883 is still in its conceptual stages, it promises to dig even deeper into the roots of the Duttons. Exploring new characters, it could offer fresh insights into the family’s legacy.
Why It’s Ranked Number 5
As it’s still in the early stages of development, we can only speculate on what Y: 1883 will entail. Its positioning in the timeline, however, gives it great potential to expand the world of Yellowstone and introduce even more rich narratives.
Conclusion: Which Yellowstone Spin-Off Should You Watch First?
With so many Yellowstone spin-offs on the horizon, there’s no shortage of content to look forward to. From the intense drama of 1923 to the groundbreaking story of 1883: The Bass Reeves Story, these spin-offs are sure to capture your attention.
Whether you’re into historical tales, modern ranching drama, or stories of iconic figures, there’s a Yellowstone spin-off for you. It’s clear that the Dutton family’s legacy is far from over—and these spin-offs are only just beginning to scratch the surface of their rich, complex world.
FAQs About Yellowstone Spin-Offs
- When is 1923 releasing?
- 1923 premiered in December 2022 and continues to captivate audiences with its historical storytelling.
- Is 6666 connected to Yellowstone?
- Yes, 6666 is a direct spin-off set on the 6666 Ranch, which has connections to the Yellowstone series.
- How does 1883 relate to Yellowstone?
- 1883 serves as a prequel to Yellowstone, telling the story of how the Dutton family first came to own their land.
- What is the premise of Y: 1883?
- Y: 1883 is still in development, but it is expected to explore the origins of the Dutton legacy even further back in history.
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Will all of the Yellowstone spin-offs be as successful as the original?
- While it’s hard to predict, the ongoing success of the Yellowstone universe suggests that the spin-offs will continue to captivate audiences and expand the fan base.
