A-list actor Kevin Costner has revealed that his own concept for concluding the hit drama Yellowstone was dramatically at odds with the fate that ultimately befell the Dutton family.
Costner's Alternative Vision: A Soap Opera Behind Bars
In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Costner described the Paramount Network series as a "bit of a soap opera" and proposed a much harsher finale. He suggested that, given their numerous crimes and moral compromises, the Dutton clan "should all be in prison". This starkly contrasts with the actual narrative, which saw patriarch John Dutton meet his end at the start of the delayed second half of season five, leaving his children to carry on his legacy.
The actor's departure from the show in the middle of its fifth season complicated production and ultimately shaped its conclusion. It remains unknown whether showrunner Taylor Sheridan would have adopted Costner's proposed ending had the star remained for the full run.
Creative Differences and Dallas Comparisons
Costner's comments hint at deeper creative disagreements that may have influenced his exit. He previously expressed frustration on Marc Maron's WTF Podcast, grumbling that the show had become "too much like f***ing Dallas". This reference to the popular CBS soap opera from the 1970s-1990s underscores a perceived shift towards melodrama, which seemingly conflicted with Costner's desire for a more grounded, realistic portrayal of the characters' consequences.
In a more realistic setting, characters like the ruthless Beth (Kelly Reilly), conflicted Kayce (Luke Grimes), and scheming Jamie (Wes Bentley) would likely have faced severe legal repercussions for their actions.
The Yellowstone Universe Expands Beyond Costner
Despite Costner's departure and the main series concluding, the Yellowstone franchise is far from over. The saga will continue through several high-profile spin-offs.
Luke Grimes will reprise his role as Kayce Dutton in the upcoming series Marshals, while Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser will return as Beth and Rip Wheeler in The Dutton Ranch.
Furthermore, the universe is expanding beyond the Dutton story. A new spin-off titled The Madison, starring Michelle Pfeiffer, is in development. It will follow a wealthy New York family relocating to Montana and is expected to premiere later this year, with a second series already filmed.
Since leaving Yellowstone, Kevin Costner has focused on his own ambitious project, the four-part historical Western film series Horizon. However, this venture has faced challenges, with Warner Bros. indefinitely postponing the release of the second chapter following the box office disappointment of the first.
All episodes of Yellowstone are available to stream on Paramount+ in the UK, where new subscribers can often access a free trial period.
