Rip Wheeler Not Leaving Dutton Ranch
Fans of the Yellowstone spin-off Dutton Ranch have been left guessing after reports suggested Rip Wheeler could be heading out. However, the answer is no: Rip Wheeler is not departing Dutton Ranch, despite what certain headlines have implied. Actor Cole Hauser is not stepping away from the role; his character has simply adopted a different position in the series.
Rip's New Role at 10 Petal Ranch
After a succession of devastating events, Rip Wheeler was compelled to accept employment at the rival ranch, the 10 Petal, owned by Beulah Jackson (portrayed by Annette Bening), in order to secure an income. He and Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) hoped to collaborate in gathering intelligence about Beulah and thwart her from becoming a potential threat. While Rip has been occupied managing the 10 Petal Ranch, his ranch hands, Zachariach (Marc Menchaca) and Azul (J. R. Villarreal), have been overseeing his responsibilities at the Dutton Ranch. He hopes his stint there will be short-lived while they work out what to do about their own cattle-less ranch.
Reports of Replacement Misleading
Reports of 'Rip's replacement' have led viewers down a misleading path, as there is nobody lined up to assume the leading role. In the most recent episode, Beulah announced that her addict son, Rob-Will (Jai Courtney), would take over the running of the 10 Petal. Given the previous altercation between Rob-Will and Rip at the gas station, fans are predicting that Rip will either be forced out, or worse — killed by Rob-Will.
Future Uncertain But Rip Staying for Now
With the finale just over a week away, anything remains possible, but for now Rip is staying put and there is nothing to suggest he is on his way out. The series is yet to be renewed for another season, but following its record-breaking debut, expectations are high for its return. Dutton Ranch airs on Fridays on Paramount+.
