The Yellowstone fandom is in turmoil after news broke that Kevin Costner, who plays the iconic John Dutton, will be leaving the show following the conclusion of season 5.
The split of season 5 into two parts, reportedly without Costner’s knowledge, caused scheduling conflicts with his movie project *Horizon* and ultimately led to his decision to exit the series. With the show’s end now looming, fans have been left wondering: will there be a John Dutton spin-off?
This question has ignited heated debates online. Some fans are desperate for a deeper dive into John Dutton’s past, hoping for a prequel starring Josh Lucas, who has already portrayed a young John Dutton in flashbacks.
On Reddit, many are enthusiastic about the idea, with comments like, “Josh Lucas is a good actor, so it wouldn’t be a bad idea,” and “More Josh Lucas is never a bad thing.” Others suggest a ’90s-era series focusing on John’s formative years, believing Lucas could carry the show with less drama and a smaller budget.
However, not everyone is on board. Some fans feel the Yellowstone universe is already saturated with spin-offs and prequels. “A few years ago I would have loved this idea, but I just want them to stop now,” one fan wrote.
Another echoed, “The show is built around him. I’m sorry, but no one else can carry the show. It’s just time for it to end.” Some believe the storylines have become lackluster and that the series should conclude with dignity rather than drag on with more sequels or prequels.
Despite the division, series creator Taylor Sheridan is expanding the Yellowstone universe even further. With spin-offs like *1883*, *1923*, and the upcoming *Lawmen: Bass Reeves*, *Yellowstone: 6666*, *1944*, and *1960*, there’s speculation that one of these new shows could explore the roots of John Dutton’s legacy.
While *1944* is rumored to focus on World War II-era Duttons, *1960* may delve into John’s parents’ lives and the era that shaped him. This could provide fans with the backstory they crave, revealing childhood secrets and pivotal moments that made John Dutton the man he is.
As for how the current show will connect to these spin-offs, some fans theorize that season 5 part two might end with John Dutton’s death, possibly accompanied by flashbacks to his childhood—setting up a transition to the *1960* series. Meanwhile, characters like Beth and Rip might move on to the *6666* ranch, further expanding the Yellowstone universe.
Another hot topic among fans is the significance of the Yellowstone “Y” brand. Since season 1, branding has symbolized loyalty, commitment, and belonging to the ranch. It’s a painful, almost ritualistic process that marks characters as part of the Dutton family, much like branding cattle.
The origins of this tradition may be explored in *1923* or another spin-off, adding even more depth to the show’s lore.
With Yellowstone set to end in season 5, fans are left divided but eager for answers about the future of the Dutton legacy. Whether or not there’s a John Dutton spin-off, one thing is clear: the world Taylor Sheridan created will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
