The Yellowstone universe is saddling up for another thrilling ride. Fans who were captivated by the raw, emotional storytelling of 1883 have reason to celebrate — Taylor Sheridan’s prequel saga is officially returning, not as a traditional continuation, but as a bold new chapter titled 1883: The Bass Reeves Story.

Here’s everything you need to know about what’s next, who’s returning, and when you can expect new episodes to drop.

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A Different Kind of Season Two

The first season of 1883 ended with the harrowing conclusion of James (Tim McGraw) and Margaret Dutton’s (Faith Hill) westward journey, cementing the foundation for the Dutton legacy seen in Yellowstone. Sheridan later confirmed that their story had reached its natural end, meaning there would be no direct continuation.

Instead, 1883 Season 2 — officially subtitled The Bass Reeves Story — will shift focus to one of the most legendary figures of the Old West: Bass Reeves, the first Black U.S. Marshal west of the Mississippi.

The series promises to continue Sheridan’s signature blend of grit, beauty, and moral complexity, exploring themes of justice, identity, and survival in a lawless frontier.

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Cast and Storyline

David Oyelowo will take on the lead role as Bass Reeves, portraying the lawman’s dangerous and inspiring journey through post-Civil War America. The series will chronicle Reeves’ transformation from an escaped slave into one of history’s most respected peace officers — a man credited with capturing more than 3,000 outlaws without ever being wounded.

While the focus shifts away from the Duttons, there’s speculation that 1883 characters like Shea Brennan (Sam Elliott) or James Dutton (Tim McGraw) could appear through flashbacks or historical references, bridging the emotional and thematic ties to the original series.

Paramount+ has teased that Reeves’ story may reveal deeper connections to the wider Yellowstone timeline, expanding the mythos that began with 1883 and continued through 1923.

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When Will 1883: The Bass Reeves Story Premiere?

Although an exact premiere date hasn’t been confirmed, production updates suggest the 10-episode season is on track to debut in early 2025 on Paramount+.

Here’s the expected release schedule based on Sheridan’s rollout pattern for 1923 and Lawmen: Bass Reeves:

(Dates subject to change pending Paramount+ announcements.)

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How It Fits Into the Yellowstone Universe

With Yellowstone approaching its final episodes and 1923 continuing the Dutton saga into the next generation, 1883: The Bass Reeves Story will serve as both a companion and expansion of the franchise.

Sheridan’s storytelling has always been about exploring moral frontiers — and this time, the frontier is both historical and deeply human. Expect sweeping landscapes, tense showdowns, and the same cinematic scale that made 1883 one of television’s most visually striking dramas.

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Final Thoughts: Why Fans Should Be Excited

While it isn’t a direct continuation of the Duttons’ journey, 1883: The Bass Reeves Story is set to be another standout entry in the Yellowstone universe. With David Oyelowo leading a powerhouse cast and Taylor Sheridan’s creative fingerprints all over the script, the series promises powerful performances, emotional storytelling, and a fresh, untold chapter of American history.

Get ready to ride back into the dust and danger of the 19th century — 1883 is returning, and this time, it’s bringing 10 brand-new episodes of courage, justice, and legend