While the final episode of Yellowstone’s flagship series is yet to be aired, Paramount Network is already setting up another spin-off.
The popular and sometimes contentious Western drama by Taylor Sheridan resumed its fifth season last month after a two-year break and the departure of its main star, Kevin Costner.
With just one episode remaining, fans have been left in suspense about how the Dutton saga will conclude or if it will carry on.
However, Deadline has now reported that Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser have sealed deals to reprise their roles as Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler in a spin-off series.
Unlike previous Yellowstone spin-offs, which have been prequels set in the late 19th or early 20th centuries, this new series will continue the main story in the present day, reports .
Yellowstone spin-off with Beth and Rip officially in the works after season 5 (Image: PARAMOUNT)
Sheridan, the showrunner, is said to be working on the series, which is expected to feature other key characters from the original show. According to Deadline, MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios had been negotiating with Reilly and Hauser for months before securing a deal for their return.
This direct connection to the original drama means it will be the first spin-off to carry the Yellowstone title, unlike the upcoming sequel series The Madison starring Michelle Pfeiffer, due to air in 2025.
However, Deadline also reports that this will be an entirely new series, not Yellowstone season six.
Yellowstone continues without leading man Kevin Costner (Image: PARAMOUNT)
Reports were released just days before Paramount premieres its eagerly anticipated series finale this Sunday (December 15).
Despite maintaining a loyal following even after losing its star actor and enduring a two-year hiatus, it remains to be seen whether a focus on characters Rip and Beth can rival the success of the Costner-fronted seasons.
Fans have been vocal in their critique of recent episodes, with a user lamenting: “This whole season is a complete letdown compared to the previous ones.
“I like how they made it seem for months like losing Kevin Costner wasn’t a big deal, yet the whole show is still about him… just… without him!…
Other major characters will reportedly return (Image: PARAMOUNT)
“The writing is lazy, nothing really happens. It’s been 4 episodes and there’s nothing you can point your finger on and say ‘wow, this was well thought out’ or even a good scene.”
Accusations have also surfaced against the series creator Sheridan for allegedly indulging his own vanity within the show, particularly after casting Bella Hadid as the girlfriend of his character Travis.
Yet, some defend the choice, citing Hadid’s genuine equestrian skills and her connection to the cowboy lifestyle through her partner Adan Banuelos, a distinguished NCHA Riders Hall of Fame member who also featured in the series.
Screen Time at Reach has approached Paramount for comment.
Yellowstone season 5, part 2 continues Sundays on Paramount and the following Monday on Paramount+.