With “1923” officially in the history books, the Dutton family story is officially moving on to “1944.”
As previously announced, “1944” will be the next “Yellowstone” prequel at Paramount+, following “1883” and “1923.” The exact nature of the story is being kept under wraps, but it will no doubt delve into how World War II has impacted the Yellowstone Ranch and the Duttons.
SPOILERS FOR “1923” AHEAD
In the series finale of “1923,” it is revealed that Spencer Dutton (played by Brandon Sklenar) loses his wife Alex (Julia Schlaepfer), but lives another 45 years as he raises their son. That son is John Dutton II, the father of “Yellowstone” protagonist John Dutton III. John II would be 21 years old by 1944, making him a natural protagonist for the series. Likewise, Spencer would still be alive in 1944, but it remains to be seen if Sklenar would return to play him. The actor is certainly game, though.
“Listen, I know that ‘1944’ is a thing that they are planning on doing here, and maybe we see Spencer in 1944,” Sklenar told Variety in an interview tied to the finale. “That is something I would be interested in doing.”
The move to continue the “Yellowstone” prequel shows comes as little surprise, as both “1923” and “1883” have performed well for Paramount. In addition to strong viewership numbers, “1883” picked up three Emmy nominations and Season 1 of “1923” earned two Golden Globe nod, including one for best drama series.
The prequels also deepen “Yellowstone” mastermind Taylor Sheridan’s relationship with Paramount, where he is under a rich overall deal. “Yellowstone” concluded after five seasons in December 2024, but the new series “The Madison” starring Michelle Pfeiffer is on the way, while a Beth-Rip spinoff is in the works. It was also recently reported that there have been early discussions about a Kayce Dutton spinoff at CBS.
Sheridan also has the shows “Landman,” “Tulsa King,” “Mayor of Kingstown,” and “Lioness” at Paramount+.
