When Yellowstone first launched in 2018, the draw was obvious: Kevin Costner leading a modern-day Western drama as John Dutton. His star power gave the Paramount Network its first real breakout hit and introduced Taylor Sheridan’s “Duttonverse” to audiences.

But with Costner’s controversial departure and John Dutton killed off, Sheridan has shifted strategy — and the spin-offs are now bringing in an even bigger lineup of Hollywood heavyweights.

⭐ Star Power Takes Over

• Dutton Ranch and The Madison will feature Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly alongside Ed Harris, Annette Bening, Michelle Pfeiffer, Jai Courtney, Matthew Fox, and Kurt Russell.

• Y: Marshals, led by Luke Grimes (Kayce Dutton), is bringing back Gil Birmingham and adding Logan Marshall-Green.

• Sheridan already scored huge wins casting Sam Elliott in 1883 and Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren in 1923.

The days of Yellowstone relying on a single marquee name (Costner) are over. Sheridan has clearly learned from the chaos surrounding Costner’s exit — now building casts that are ensemble-driven, packed with stars from top to bottom.

🎥 Familiar Faces Bring New Viewers

Casting recognizable names isn’t just about prestige; it’s a way to cut through the noise of peak TV. Fans of Kurt Russell’s Tombstone or Ed Harris’ Appaloosa are likely to tune in for The Madison or Dutton Ranch. Sheridan’s casting choices are deliberately designed to hook new audiences while keeping loyal fans invested.

⚠️ But Will It Work?

While big stars don’t always guarantee strong storytelling, Sheridan’s past projects (Tulsa King, Mayor of Kingstown, Lioness, Landman) have shown the formula works. Pair strong scripts with A-list casts, and Paramount has a reliable ratings machine.

Whether or not these spin-offs can match Yellowstone’s cultural moment remains to be seen — but in terms of star power, they’ve already surpassed the flagship.