The Dutton Legacy Marches Into War

The Yellowstone universe is about to enter its most explosive era yet. Taylor Sheridan’s next prequel, Yellowstone 1944, will thrust the Dutton family into the chaos of World War II, marking a dramatic new chapter in the saga that began with 1883 and 1923.

While the trailer has yet to be released, the buzz surrounding the upcoming series has fans restless with anticipation. According to reports, Yellowstone 1944 will not move forward until Yellowstone Season 5, Part 2 concludes — setting up a 2026 premiere window.

A War-Torn New Frontier

Set against the backdrop of the 1940s, Yellowstone 1944 promises to blend global conflict with the Duttons’ fierce fight to preserve their Montana ranch. The prequel is expected to explore how the family’s legacy survives amid war, loss, and generational upheaval.

In the rumored storyline, Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar) and Alexandra (Julia Schlaepfer) could return — now older, wiser, and possibly raising the next generation of Duttons. Their story may lead directly to the birth of John Dutton II, paving the way for the lineage seen in the original Yellowstone series.

What Fans Expect From the Trailer

Though production has not yet begun, fans hope the Yellowstone 1944 trailer will tease sweeping wartime visuals — soldiers on horseback, battles fought both on foreign soil and within the Dutton family. The mystery surrounding which Duttons will serve in the war, and who will protect the ranch, adds another layer of suspense.

The tone is expected to mirror the grit and grandeur of 1883 and 1923, with Taylor Sheridan once again promising emotionally charged storytelling, moral conflict, and a striking sense of realism.

Returning Faces and New Blood

Here’s what’s known — and rumored — about the Yellowstone 1944 cast lineup so far:

While Kevin Costner’s involvement remains unconfirmed, fans are hopeful he will narrate or appear in a framing sequence — tying the past to the present.

Building Toward the Next Chapter

Chris McCarthy, CEO of Paramount Global, praised Sheridan’s ability to expand the Yellowstone universe, noting the franchise’s meteoric rise from 5 million to over 100 million global viewers in just five years. With Landman and 1923 Season 2 in development, 1944 continues Sheridan’s vision of connecting American history with the Duttons’ mythic resilience.

When Will the Trailer Arrive?

Production on Yellowstone 1944 has not yet started, meaning the trailer’s debut is still months away. Fans should expect the first footage to arrive sometime in late 2025 or early 2026, once principal filming begins.

Until then, speculation reigns — and the promise of seeing the Duttons face the most devastating war in human history keeps audiences hooked.

Yellowstone 1944: Coming in 2026

Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone 1944 will deliver a powerful story of legacy under fire. As the Duttons fight to survive both on the battlefield and at home, their choices will shape everything that comes after.

In 1944, bloodlines will be tested, loyalties will break, and the true cost of the Dutton empire will finally be revealed.