I’ll be honest—after being emotionally wrecked by 1883 and heartbroken by 1923, I wasn’t sure if Yellowstone had any more emotional punches left to throw. Those two prequels told raw, unflinching stories of survival, love, and loss that deeply shaped the Dutton family legacy. It felt like we had reached the final page in their origin story. But then came the announcement of 1944, and suddenly, the Dutton saga feels far from over.

This upcoming series will mark the third chapter in the Dutton family origin story, following the critically acclaimed 1883 and 1923. Like its predecessors, 1944 is set during a pivotal time in American and Dutton history—this time, the backdrop is World War II. The story is expected to pick up roughly 21 years after the events of 1923, placing us in an era where John Dutton II—presumed to be the son of Spencer and Alexandra—is entering adulthood.

Yes, 1944 will introduce us to the man who eventually becomes the father of Kevin Costner’s John Dutton from the original Yellowstone series. This generational bridge makes the show incredibly exciting for longtime fans.

The Aftermath of 1923: Grief That Shapes a Generation

Let’s not forget how 1923 ended. The heartbreaking death of Alexandra—due to frostbite shortly after childbirth—left many fans stunned and grieving. Her death not only marked a tragic end to one of the most compelling love stories in the franchise but also sets the tone for 1944. John Dutton II will grow up as an orphan, and that emotional scar is sure to define his character arc in powerful ways.

Interestingly, Julia Schlaepfer, who portrayed Alexandra, recently mentioned she’d be open to returning to the franchise—possibly as a ghost. Whether it’s a vision that comforts her grown son or a spectral presence guiding Spencer through grief, the idea has intriguing potential.

Familiar Faces Could Return

While there’s no official cast list yet, there are strong signs that familiar characters might reprise their roles. Brandon Sklenar, who played Spencer, has expressed willingness to return. Watching him mentor his son during the war years could offer a deeply emotional continuation of his story. And remember, 1923 hinted at Spencer eventually forming a relationship with a widowed woman—possibly another significant character in shaping the Dutton lineage.

Michelle Randolph, who portrayed Elizabeth, is another possible return. After surviving the events of 1923, she remained closely tied to the Duttons. Some fans speculate she may be the widowed woman Spencer eventually marries, though opinions vary.

And of course, there’s the legendary duo—Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren. Despite their advanced age in the timeline, both Jacob and Cara Dutton survived the finale of 1923, much to the actors’ surprise. While it’s unlikely they’d appear as active characters in 1944, flashbacks are a definite possibility, and both Ford and Mirren have expressed openness to returning.

Could Samuel L. Jackson Join the Yellowstone Universe?

In a surprising twist, Samuel L. Jackson recently revealed interest in joining a Yellowstone series. While nothing is confirmed, the WWII setting of 1944 could be the perfect fit. As a Black man living in mid-century America, Jackson’s character could bring valuable new perspectives to the show. Imagine him as a war mentor or comrade to John Dutton II—a powerful way to expand the Dutton story with fresh depth and realism.

A Story Set in War, Loss, and Legacy

Setting 1944 during World War II isn’t just historically compelling—it raises the emotional and narrative stakes. We’ve seen the Duttons survive the Wild West, the Great Depression, and deep personal loss. Now, they’ll be tested by global war. John Dutton II is of fighting age, which likely means intense war scenes, moral dilemmas, and personal growth under fire.

And this might not be the end. Whispers suggest 1944 could run for two seasons, potentially taking us into the 1960s—when Kevin Costner’s John Dutton (John III) would have been a child. This would beautifully connect the prequels to the modern Yellowstone timeline.

What’s Next?

Taylor Sheridan is back in the writer’s chair, and if the budget of 1923 was any indication, 1944 is set to be even bigger—think battle scenes, period sets, and emotionally rich storytelling. However, fans shouldn’t expect a release date in 2025. With Sheridan’s full schedule and the show still in development, most signs point to production starting in late 2025 and a premiere sometime in 2026.

What do you think about 1944? Are you ready for another emotional ride with the Duttons, or do you think the story should have ended with 1923? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow for weekly Yellowstone updates.