In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Cole Hauser, the actor behind the beloved Rip Wheeler in Yellowstone, unveiled a fascinating behind-the-scenes revelation about his casting. Originally, Hauser was being considered for a very different role on the show, one of John Dutton’s sons—Kayce, Jamie, or Lee Dutton—but his connection with co-creator Taylor Sheridan turned the tide, and Rip Wheeler was born.

Hauser’s story is one of serendipity and collaboration. He explains that when Yellowstone was first pitched to him by his longtime friend, John Linson, he was given the option to audition for one of the Dutton boys. After reading the pilot episode, Hauser was drawn to the character of Rip Wheeler, who only appeared in a few scenes. Despite this limited screen time, Hauser saw something in Rip and felt an immediate connection to the role.

“I got on the phone with Taylor Sheridan, and we spoke for two hours,” Hauser recalls. “That was kind of it. Then I started to work with and be around Taylor while he was writing, and he started building the character along with some of the ideas that I had.” The process of developing Rip became a collaboration between Hauser and Sheridan, transforming the character into one of the most compelling figures in Yellowstone.

It’s hard to imagine Hauser playing anyone but Rip. With his rugged charm and intense portrayal, Hauser’s Rip Wheeler quickly became a fan-favourite, a central figure in the show’s sprawling narrative. But had Hauser taken on one of the Dutton sons, the dynamics of the show could have been completely different. While he could have easily fit into the role of Kayce, given his natural intensity, it’s unlikely they would have cast Hauser for the minor role of Lee Dutton, especially since Lee was killed off in the first episode. Hauser’s impact on the show would have been undeniable, but the show’s course would have been altered, especially with the depth Rip brought to the table.

Hauser’s transition into Rip Wheeler stands as a testament to Sheridan’s ability to adapt his writing to his actors, bringing out their strengths and tailoring roles that fit them perfectly. This collaboration between actor and creator helped mold Rip Wheeler into the iconic figure we know today, and it’s clear that Hauser’s involvement helped elevate Yellowstone to new heights.

Had Hauser played Kayce or Lee, Yellowstone might not have been the cultural phenomenon it became. The show’s success is partly thanks to Hauser’s portrayal of Rip, whose character arc has become a driving force behind the Dutton family’s drama. What began as a small part has now grown into one of television’s most memorable roles.

The Ripple Effect: What If Cole Hauser Had Played Kayce?

Imagine a Yellowstone without Rip Wheeler, where Cole Hauser’s presence was reserved for the role of Kayce Dutton. The ripple effects would have been significant, perhaps shifting the entire family dynamic of the Duttons and ultimately affecting the show’s trajectory. The raw intensity Hauser brings to Rip could have redefined Kayce’s role—and who knows how different the character dynamics would have been had Hauser taken on the part originally meant for him. Would Yellowstone have been as successful with a different Dutton son? Fans may never know. But one thing is certain—Hauser’s chemistry with Sheridan and the way Rip was developed has undeniably shaped Yellowstone into the hit show it is today.