The Yellowstone universe has never shied away from bold, unexpected storytelling choices, but the latest idea from Brandon Sklenar and Julia Schlaepfer could take things into an entirely new—and supernatural—direction. The two stars, known for their compelling roles in 1923, have recently revealed in interviews that they’d love to see a ghost storyline woven into the rumored 1944 spinoff. While it may sound far-fetched for a gritty Western drama, the more they talk about it, the more it starts to feel like a natural extension of the Dutton saga’s emotionally charged and often mysterious world.

Brandon Sklenar, who captivated audiences as the tragic Spencer Dutton, and Julia Schlaepfer, beloved for her portrayal of Alexandra, have already become fan favorites. Their on-screen chemistry and emotionally rich performances made them one of the most talked-about couples in the franchise. However, as 1923 unfolded, their characters’ futures became increasingly uncertain, leading some viewers to wonder if they could even be part of 1944. That’s where the “ghost storyline” idea comes into play—a creative workaround that could bring them back in a new, unforgettable way.

The concept they’ve floated is intriguing: rather than returning as living characters in the traditional sense, Spencer and Alexandra could reappear as spectral presences, tied to the Dutton ranch and the family’s legacy. This wouldn’t necessarily mean 1944 becomes a supernatural series, but rather that elements of the past—represented by these “ghosts”—could manifest in the memories, dreams, or even the psychological struggles of the 1944 characters.

One version of this idea could see the new generation of Duttons in 1944 grappling with major crises—war, economic upheaval, and land disputes—and finding themselves “visited” by figures from the past. These apparitions could serve as guides, warnings, or symbolic representations of the burdens each generation inherits. In that sense, Spencer and Alexandra wouldn’t be there to scare anyone, but to embody the lingering emotional weight of family history.

Julia Schlaepfer has spoken about how much she loves the idea of Alexandra’s spirit appearing during moments of romantic or moral conflict. For example, a young Dutton woman in 1944 might find herself at a crossroads in love, and in a dreamlike sequence, Alexandra could appear—offering advice drawn from her own bittersweet experiences. Brandon Sklenar, on the other hand, has envisioned Spencer’s ghost as more of a stoic, silent presence—appearing in times of danger, almost like a guardian who never fully lets go of the family he died to protect.

Of course, introducing such a concept in a franchise known for its grounded, gritty realism would be a risk. But fans of Yellowstone know that Taylor Sheridan is no stranger to experimenting with tone and style. In 1883, the narrative was frequently framed by Elsa Dutton’s poetic voiceover, even after her death, creating a spiritual undercurrent. Similarly, 1923 already toyed with the idea of destiny, fate, and the lingering presence of those who came before. A ghost storyline could simply be a natural evolution of those themes.

The 1944 setting is also ripe for a darker, more introspective tone. With World War II serving as the historical backdrop, the characters would be living in an era defined by loss, sacrifice, and uncertainty. In times like that, it’s not uncommon for people—especially those living on isolated land like the Dutton ranch—to cling to the idea that their ancestors are watching over them. The inclusion of ghostly elements could heighten the emotional stakes without turning the show into pure fantasy.

Another fascinating angle is how this ghost concept could allow Sheridan to reconnect 1944 with the earlier chapters of the Dutton story in a more direct way. Instead of relying solely on flashbacks, the presence of Spencer and Alexandra’s “spirits” could serve as living reminders of past events, giving long-time fans a deeper sense of continuity. Imagine a tense ranch meeting where a character glances out the window and sees Spencer standing at the fence line—only to blink and find no one there. The moment might last just a second, but it would carry an emotional punch that fans would remember.