🐎 1944 Show Cast Revealed:

Every Yellowstone Character Now Expected to Appear in Taylor Sheridan’s New Prequel

The Yellowstone universe is growing again — and this time, it’s heading into World War II-era Montana. Taylor Sheridan’s next highly anticipated prequel, Yellowstone: 1944, is deep in development, and fans are finally getting a glimpse at what’s to come

Now, casting rumors and early production leaks suggest that **multiple key characters—some familiar, others brand-new—**will appear in the series. And for die-hard fans, it might just be the most emotionally intense chapter yet.

🧭 What Is Yellowstone: 1944 About?

Set two decades after the events of 1923, Yellowstone: 1944 will take place in the shadow of World War II, as the Dutton family faces:

• Global war and its effects on the ranch

• Changing gender roles and economic pressure

• Land disputes more dangerous than ever

• Generational trauma from the early 1900s

The show is expected to bridge the gap between 1923 and the present-day Yellowstone, finally clarifying the full Dutton family tree — including John Dutton II, the father of Kevin Costner’s character.

✅ Every Major Character Expected to Appear (So Far)

Let’s break down who’s likely to return or debut based on Sheridan’s timeline and casting buzz:

👨‍🌾 Jack Dutton (Returning)

Last seen in 1923, Jack Dutton (son of John Sr. and Emma) is expected to return in 1944 as the new patriarch of the ranch. Aged roughly 40–50 in this series, Jack will likely be grappling with the loss of his parents, the responsibility of war-time ranching, and raising the next Dutton heir.

Possible Casting: An older version of Jack, likely recast from 1923’s Darren Mann.

👩‍👦 Elizabeth Dutton (Returning)

Jack’s wife, Elizabeth, who was pregnant by the end of 1923, is expected to return as the matriarch-in-the-making. Her role will be pivotal as she raises what may be John Dutton II, the future father of Kevin Costner’s character.

Expect a strong-willed, emotionally resilient Elizabeth, running the household during war-time.

👶 Young John Dutton II (Debuting)

This is the most anticipated new character of the series. 1944 is expected to introduce a young John Dutton II, the missing link between 1923 and Yellowstone’s present.

He could be a teenager or early adult in the later episodes, possibly preparing to go to war or help on the ranch.

🧓 Cara Dutton (Possible Return)

Though aged by now, Cara (played by Helen Mirren in 1923) may make a final appearance — possibly in flashbacks or as a dying family elder whose wisdom lingers. Whether Mirren returns or a new actress steps in remains unclear.

🐴 New Ranch Hands & Cowboys

Expect a fresh generation of ranch workers, many of whom may be:

• Veterans returning from Europe or the Pacific

• Women stepping into traditionally male roles during the war

• Cowboys balancing loyalty to the land with the call of duty

Some may be ancestors of recurring modern-day Yellowstone characters (e.g., ancestors of Lloyd, Rip’s family, etc.).

🔫 Military Characters & WWII Subplots

Sheridan is known for blending American history with Western grit. Sources suggest that 1944 will include:

• Dutton family members enlisting in the war effort

• A subplot about a wounded soldier returning to the ranch

• PTSD and trauma themes echoing the emotional tone of 1923’s Spencer arc

🌾 Native American Storylines Continue

As with previous series, Native American perspectives will remain central. Expect:

• Land disputes intensifying as the government expands military bases

• A possible return of Broken Rock ancestors or tribal leaders from 1923

• Continued cultural conflict between ranchers and native communities

📝 Possible Cameos From Other Yellowstone Legends

There’s speculation (though not confirmed) that 1944 could feature voiceover cameos or flash-forward scenes of Kevin Costner’s John Dutton III narrating moments from the past — particularly during scenes introducing John Dutton II.

Some fans even believe a young version of John Sr. might appear in dreams or flashbacks.

🎬 Behind the Scenes

• Writer/Creator: Taylor Sheridan

• Expected Release: 2026 on Paramount+

• Tone: Gritty, emotional, historically rich, and darker than 1923

• Filming Locations: Likely Montana, with some war-set scenes possibly filmed in Europe or backlot recreations