The final episodes of Yellowstone are currently in production, and as the show’s stars return to the Montana set, some are teasing what’s to come for the Dutton family. At least one is promising a satisfying and emotional end for the series, which returns to television this November. Ian Bohen, who plays Ryan the ranch hand, warns fans to keep tissues handy.
Fans are already speculating how the final episodes (technically the second half of season five) will play out, particularly with the recent announcement by series lead Kevin Costner that he will not return as Gov. John Dutton, the family patriarch who is fighting to save the ranch from developers and rivals. In an Instagram post, Bohen said tears will flow when the final episodes air:
Clear your calendar. Grab your tissues. Send the youngins off to your sisters house. It’s gonna get real western around here.
Jen Landon, who plays fan-favorite ranch hand Teeter, posted a behind-the-scenes image from the set, with fellow “ranch hand” actors Ryan Bingham (who plays the volatile Walker) and Jake Ream (who plays Jake). Bingham also shared the picture on his Instagram, with the caption “Back on the Stone.”
Cole Hauser, who plays the no-nonsense ranch foreman Rip, has become a central character to the series, with a huge fan following. He was careful not to divulge any secrets from the set in his posts, but focused on the Montana skies instead. “Good morning #montana I’ve missed ya old friend,” he said in his post. “If you are going to rise, you might as well shine.”
Finn Little, who plays the troubled kid Carter, celebrated his 18th birthday recently on-set. He posted a picture to Instagram of his birthday cake, which appeared to be served to him in the ranch bunkhouse, for those familiar with the show’s sets.
Filming began in May, and will likely continue up to the premiere of new episodes (designated season 5B by fans) in November.
The Future of Yellowstone Lies Beyond The Flagship Series
The end of the flagship series hardly means the end of the Yellowstone franchise, which has already spun off into two prequel series, 1883 and 1923. Another prequel series, 1944, is in the works, and a sequel series, 2024, is expected to begin production as soon as Yellowstone concludes filming. Key members of the Yellowstone cast will reprise their roles in the sequel series, including Luke Grimes (as Casey Dutton), Kelly Reilly (as Beth Dutton) and Cole Hauser (as Rip).
1923 is currently filming its second season in Texas, with Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren returning to tell the story of the early, violent years of the Dutton Yellowstone Ranch. 1883 premiered in 2021 and lasted a single season. It starred Tim McGraw, Faith Hill and Sam Elliott, and told the story of the first Duttons to head west and establish the Yellowstone Ranch.
While the departure of Costner seems to mean a tragic turn is coming in the final six episodes, fans have reason to be hopeful. Rumors abound that Matthew McConaughey may join the 2024 sequel series, which may mean an appearance on Yellowstone to set up future storylines.
