Expanding Yellowstone’s Universe

CBS’s upcoming Y: Marshals promises to blend the high-stakes world of law enforcement with the rugged neo-Western atmosphere fans loved in Yellowstone. By diving into Kayce Dutton’s (Luke Grimes) past as a Navy SEAL and highlighting the challenges faced by U.S. Marshals, the series has potential to surpass even some of the original show’s most thrilling moments. But one character could be key to unlocking this potential: Cade McPherson, played by Jake McLaughlin.

Introduced late in Yellowstone Season 5B, Cade only appeared in a couple of episodes but left a strong impression. His first appearance in “The Apocalypse of Change” had him assisting Kayce in investigating Jamie’s (Wes Bentley) role in their father’s murder. He returned briefly in “Counting Coup” to help Kayce target Grant Horton (Matt Gerald), the real culprit.

Cade: More Than a Plot Device

Cade’s brief presence on Yellowstone left viewers wanting more. His character served as a functional plot device rather than a fully realized personality. Cade’s scenes mostly involved phone calls, limiting the opportunity for in-person interaction and character development. Yet his bond with Kayce is clearly significant, hinting at a shared history and deep camaraderie forged during their military service.

Y: Marshals offers the perfect opportunity to flesh out Cade, giving him a more prominent role alongside Kayce. Considering their seamless cooperation and implied trust, viewers would likely find the dynamic between the two former SEALs compelling—similar to the camaraderie explored in shows like SEAL Team or The Terminal List.

Exploring Kayce’s SEAL History

One of the strengths of Y: Marshals will be its ability to explore Kayce’s formative years as a Navy SEAL. With SEAL Team showrunner Spencer Hudnut overseeing the program, the series is expected to integrate military action sequences, flashbacks, and strategic operations. Cade McPherson could play a pivotal role here, helping viewers understand Kayce’s decision to leave the military and pursue a career as a U.S. Marshal.

Alongside Cade, the addition of Logan Marshall-Green as Pete Calvin—another military comrade—offers further insight into Kayce’s past. However, Cade’s inclusion is crucial to maintain continuity with the Yellowstone universe and reinforce the themes of loyalty, brotherhood, and moral complexity that shaped Kayce’s character.

Flashbacks and Character Depth

Using flashbacks strategically could provide an intimate look at Kayce’s SEAL missions while highlighting Cade’s skills and intelligence. Cade is already portrayed as resourceful and vigilant, managing sensitive information through secure channels. By expanding his role, Y: Marshals can create layered storytelling that balances procedural investigations with character-driven drama.

This approach would not only enhance the procedural elements of the show but also allow audiences to see the human side of law enforcement, revealing how past trauma and military discipline shape the present.

A New Direction for the Yellowstone Universe

Y: Marshals is shaping up to be a fresh take on the neo-Western genre. Without the Dutton ranch’s land-grabbing plots or the usual family drama, the series is free to focus on high-stakes investigations, intense action, and Kayce’s personal evolution. Integrating Cade McPherson ensures that the show honors the legacy of Yellowstone while exploring new narrative territory.

Fans can expect a gripping mix of procedural drama, military intensity, and personal stakes as Kayce navigates his next chapter. By bringing Cade back, Y: Marshals has the potential to become a standout spinoff that complements the original while establishing its own identity.