If you’re a Yellowstone fan, you’ve probably spent more time than you’d like pondering the tangled roots of the Dutton family tree. With the conclusion of “1923,” the franchise is set to continue its sweeping historical saga with the newly announced prequel, “1944.”
Although details have been scarce due to Taylor Sheridan’s notorious secrecy, recent hints from the cast and crew have begun to paint a picture of what’s in store.
“1944” was first announced nearly a year ago, but only now, after the dust has settled from “1923,” are we learning more. The story will pick up after the events of “1923,” where Jacob and Cara Dutton struggled to hold onto the family land amid economic collapse, drought, and political corruption.
The finale left viewers with many questions—especially after Alex gave birth to a baby boy named John, only to tragically die, and Elizabeth was also revealed to be pregnant. This ambiguity has left fans debating which child is truly the John Dutton Sr. who will become the patriarch of the Yellowstone Ranch.
Actor Brandon Sklenar, who plays Spencer, has hinted that Alex’s son could be the father of Kevin Costner’s John Dutton, but nothing is confirmed. “1944” could finally answer these lingering questions, focusing on this child—now grown—navigating a world changed by war and upheaval, with Spencer guiding him through life’s challenges.
What sets “1944” apart from previous prequels is its historical backdrop. Set during World War II, the series will explore how the war reshaped American life, even in remote places like Montana.
Men left for battle, women stepped into new roles, and small towns shrank as people either went to war or moved to cities for work. This period of transformation is ripe for the kind of dramatic storytelling Sheridan excels at.
Despite the excitement, some fans worry that “1944” could languish in development. Taylor Sheridan’s plate is full, with ongoing projects like “Tulsa King,” “Mayor of Kingstown,” and multiple Yellowstone spin-offs, including the much-anticipated Beth and Rip series and “The Madison” starring Michelle Pfeiffer.
Paramount’s recent corporate shakeups and budget cuts have also left some projects in limbo, such as the long-teased “6666.” Still, if “1944” moves forward, it promises to be a pivotal chapter in the Dutton legacy.
Casting rumors are equally tantalizing. Fans hope to see John Dutton II—whether Alex’s or Elizabeth’s son—finally take center stage. Brandon Sklenar has expressed interest in returning as Spencer, though he may be too young to play an older version.
Kurt Russell is a popular fan choice to play a Dutton patriarch, and Harrison Ford has said he’s open to reprising his role as Jacob, even though the character would be nearly 100 years old by 1944.
Plot theories abound, including the possibility of a family rift—perhaps a battle between Alex’s and Elizabeth’s sons for control of the ranch. Such an inner-family conflict would add a fresh twist to the familiar themes of loyalty and survival.
With “1944” expected to premiere in spring 2026, fans have a long wait ahead. But with its rich historical setting and the promise of answering long-standing questions, the next Dutton chapter is sure to be worth it.
