The dust may be settling on Yellowstone, but according to Cole Hauser, the man behind the beloved ranch foreman Rip Wheeler, the end of the flagship series doesn’t mean the end of Rip’s story. In a new interview, Hauser finally addressed months of speculation about his future in the Taylor Sheridan universe — and his comments have fans more excited than ever.

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Rip Wheeler’s Legacy Continues

Few characters in television history have struck a chord quite like Rip Wheeler. Fiercely loyal, quietly emotional, and utterly devoted to Beth Dutton and the Yellowstone ranch, Rip has become a modern Western icon.

Now, as Yellowstone wraps up its main saga, Hauser has confirmed what fans have been hoping to hear — Rip’s story isn’t over yet.

“I think Taylor [Sheridan] has some ideas about where Rip could go next,” Hauser teased. “Right now, I’m focused on finishing Yellowstone strong. But I’ll say this — Rip’s got more story to tell.”

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A New Spinoff on the Horizon

Hauser’s statement comes amid reports that a new series, tentatively titled 2024, is already in development. The project will reportedly pick up after the events of Yellowstone, exploring the Dutton family’s next chapter as they rebuild from tragedy and loss.

But Hauser’s comments suggest another possibility — a spinoff centered solely on Rip Wheeler, potentially exploring his life beyond the Yellowstone ranch.

Fans have speculated that the series could follow Rip as he grapples with grief and starts over, possibly with or without Beth Dutton (played by Kelly Reilly).

While Reilly has remained tight-lipped about her future in the franchise, she previously admitted that returning as Beth would be emotionally demanding, calling the role “the hardest I’ve ever played.”

Still, the chemistry between Hauser and Reilly remains one of the show’s strongest pillars, leaving the door wide open for Beth to ride again.

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How Yellowstone’s Finale Sets Up Rip’s Future

The final Yellowstone episodes were a blend of heartbreak and legacy. John Dutton’s death sent shockwaves through the ranch, fracturing the family while securing their land’s survival.

Kayce brokered a fragile peace with Thomas Rainwater, ensuring the Dutton name lived on, while Beth made sure Rip and young Carter would always have a home on the ranch.

In a rare moment of tenderness, Beth promised Rip that their love — and John’s vision — would endure. But her vow to avenge her father’s death, leading to Jamie’s exile, left fans wondering if vengeance will cost her everything.

That emotional foundation could set the stage for Rip’s next chapter: a man carrying the burden of love, loyalty, and loss — trying to find redemption beyond the Yellowstone gates.

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The Future of the Sheridan Universe

As Paramount expands its Yellowstone empire with hits like 1883, 1923, and the upcoming Y: Marshals, Rip Wheeler’s story could be the next cornerstone of the franchise.

Taylor Sheridan has already proven his ability to reinvent Western storytelling for new eras and audiences. With Hauser’s star power and Rip’s enduring popularity, a spinoff focused on the hardened cowboy could easily become the network’s next breakout hit.

For now, Hauser is keeping details close to his chest — but his confidence says it all. Rip’s journey may be far from over, and fans are ready to ride alongside him one more time.