1. The Big Question That Shook Fandom
As Yellowstone approaches its final episodes without frontrunner John Dutton (Kevin Costner), viewers are now debating whether a prequel series focused on a young John Dutton—possibly starring Josh Lucas—is the right next step. While some are thrilled, others feel it risks diluting the story’s legacy reddit.com+15corrienews.info+15goodhousekeeping.com+15
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2. Arguments For a Prequel
Enthusiastic fans argue that:
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Josh Lucas showed potential in flashbacks and could carry the role corrienews.info.
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Exploring Dutton’s past, including his upbringing and early challenges, would deepen understanding of his character motivations—much like how 1923 and 1883 have expanded the Yellowstone universe corrienews.info.
Reddit buzz reflects this:
“Josh Lucas is a good actor, so it wouldn’t be a bad idea.” corrienews.info
3. But There’s a Strong Counterpoint
Opponents believe another prequel could overextend the franchise and undermine the original series’ impact. Their concerns include:
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Yellowstone already has multiple spinoffs, and another may feel forced reddit.com+3corrienews.info+3goodhousekeeping.com+3reddit.com+7goodhousekeeping.com+7outkick.com+7.
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“The show is built around him. No one else can carry it. It’s time to end,” one fan posted corrienews.info+1news.meaww.com+1.
4. The Fandom Rift
This division reflects a broader split: one side wants more Dutton lore and emotional resonance, while the other fears unnecessary storytelling that erodes the original’s emotional weight.
5. The Taylor Sheridan Angle
Showrunner Taylor Sheridan is already expanding the universe with 1883, 1923, Yellowstone: 6666, Lawmen: Bass Reeves, and rumored entries like 1944 and 1960 time.com+15corrienews.info+15sportskeeda.com+15. The latter are believed to deep-dive into Dutton family history, possibly making a John Dutton spin-off redundant time.com+4corrienews.info+4the-express.com+4.
6. The Path Ahead
While Sheridan has not confirmed a John-focused prequel, the controversy has sparked intense online debate. Whether he greenlights a standalone series—or continues answering fans through multiple timeline-spanning dramas—remains uncertain.
Conclusion
The rumor of a John Dutton prequel with Josh Lucas has split Yellowstone fans into two camps: those craving more origin stories and those fearing overextension. As Taylor Sheridan continues to build his Western empire, the real question becomes: Is John Dutton’s story finished, or just beginning?
