Yellowstone Season 6: Since debuting in 2018, Yellowstone has become a cornerstone of Paramount Network, propelling Taylor Sheridan’s expanding universe of modern Western dramas. As the conclusion of Season 5 approaches, fans are left questioning the future of the Dutton family. Will the show move forward without Kevin Costner’s iconic portrayal of John Dutton, or is this truly the end of Yellowstone as we know it? While there’s been some uncertainty over whether the finale of Season 5B, titled “Life Is A Promise,” signals the end of the season or the series itself, we now have some clarity on what lies ahead.
What Transpired in The Final Moments of Yellowstone Season 5?
When Yellowstone Season 5 was first announced, it was marketed as the show’s grand finale, split into two parts: the first eight episodes in 2022, followed by six more in 2023. But with pandemic disruptions and the Hollywood strikes causing delays, the second half was pushed back even further. Amid these delays, Kevin Costner made the surprising decision to exit the series.
When the final episodes finally aired in 2024, fans were left stunned as John Dutton was killed off right at the start. With his death, Beth (Kelly Reilly), Kayce (Luke Grimes), and Rip (Cole Hauser) were left to pick up the pieces. As the plot unfolded, it was revealed that Jamie (Wes Bentley) was the one responsible, driven by his ambition to profit from the Market Equities airport project—a deal his father, John, had fiercely opposed.
Yellowstone Season 5 wraps up with the Duttons deciding to sell their ancestral ranch back to its original owners to save the land. With Thomas Rainwater’s help, they foil Jamie’s plans and ensure the ranch’s preservation. Beth, seeking revenge for their father’s murder, kills Jamie. The season ends with the Broken Rock Indian Reservation reclaiming the land, fulfilling the prophecy from 1883. The Dutton legacy is secured, and Kayce and Beth are freed from the ranch and their father’s control.
Is Yellowstone Season 6 Happening?
With such a definitive conclusion and no official word on a continuation, it’s hard to see Yellowstone returning for Season 6. The Dutton ranch is no longer what it was, as Rainwater’s people have reclaimed it. Kayce, Rip, Beth, and the others have moved on, with Kayce and his family starting fresh at the east camp, and Beth and Rip settling in western Montana. While the show could continue, it would be far from the series we once knew.
Drawing from the success of The Walking Dead franchise, which wrapped up its main series before launching several spin-offs with new characters, Taylor Sheridan and Paramount are shifting focus to a range of new projects. One such spin-off, The Madison, was revealed in 2023, with Michelle Pfeiffer cast in a leading role. Set to be a contemporary sequel to Yellowstone, this series is expected to premiere sometime in 2025. In addition, a new spin-off focused on Rip and Beth has also been confirmed. This suggests that even if Yellowstone were to see a sixth season, their involvement could be limited.
Cole Hauser highlighted Yellowstone’s continued popularity, hoping to keep entertaining fans as they have for seven years. While he didn’t confirm if “Life Is A Promise” is the series finale, Kelly Reilly clarified that it marks the end of the show they’ve worked on for seven years. Gil Birmingham also praised the finale as “beautifully written,” signaling that Yellowstone might be over. However, with the future uncertain, fans should stay tuned for updates on a potential Season 6.
What’s in Store for the Yellowstone Franchise?
The Yellowstone universe is far from over, with new series like The Madison and the Rip/Beth spin-off continuing the story. These will act as a sort of “season 6” even after the main series ends. Additionally, 1923 season 2, focusing on Jacob (Harrison Ford) and Cara Dutton (Helen Mirren), premieres in February 2025, while 1944 and other projects are also in the works. So, even if Yellowstone Season 5 is the end, there’s plenty more content on the way.
What are the streaming options for watching ‘Yellowstone’?
Currently, Yellowstone is only partially available for streaming. The first four seasons and part of Season 5 (up to episode 8) can be streamed on Peacock. The remaining episodes of Season 5 will likely be added later. For prequels like 1883 and 1923, you can stream them on Paramount+. Future spin-offs are expected to be available there as well.