The Yellowstone franchise is expanding once again, and this time it’s heading straight into the heart of World War II. Yellowstone 1944 is set to release in 2026, continuing Taylor Sheridan’s multi-generation storytelling with a gripping new chapter. The first trailer teases high-stakes drama, emotional depth, and a Montana landscape transformed by war. With returning characters, new faces, and wartime tension, this prequel is shaping up to be one of the franchise’s most ambitious entries yet.
The World of 1944: War Reaches the Dutton Ranch
Set during the height of WWII, Yellowstone 1944 explores how global conflict reaches Montana, disrupting everyday life and shaking the foundations of the Dutton family.
Dutton Ranch Under Pressure
The trailer reveals a ranch struggling to survive in the middle of wartime uncertainty. Key themes include:
- Rationing and limited resources that threaten ranch operations
- Family leadership shifts as fathers, sons, and workers are drafted
- Threats from outsiders hoping to take advantage of the chaos
- Emotional turmoil as loved ones say goodbye and head to the battlefield
The ranch becomes more than land—it becomes a symbol of resilience, sacrifice, and American grit.
Montana During WWII: A Community Changed Forever
Beyond the ranch, the series captures the tension of a nation at war.
Wartime Realities Featured in the Trailer
- Returning soldiers bringing trauma, conflict, and unresolved stories
- Community bonds tested by rationing, fear, and shifting roles
- Harsh Montana winters adding danger and cinematic tension
- Stark contrasts between quiet ranch life and military influence
The show blends historical detail with emotional storytelling, grounded in the rugged beauty of the American West.
Trailer Highlights That Stand Out
The first look at Yellowstone 1944 delivers powerful visuals and intense moments that hint at the drama ahead.
What Viewers Saw in the Trailer
- Sweeping shots of the Dutton Ranch overshadowed by wartime machinery
- Emotional family dinners filled with news from the frontlines
- Powerful enlistment scenes showing young Duttons heading off to war
- Snow-covered standoffs that blend action, suspense, and classic Yellowstone tension
The tone is gritty, dramatic, and deeply personal—exactly what fans expect from the franchise.
Yellowstone 1944 Cast: A Mix of Returning Favorites and New Powerhouses
The cast lineup adds even more excitement, bringing together familiar characters and Hollywood heavyweights.
Confirmed and Rumored Cast Members
- Brandon Sklenar as Spencer Dutton, now a war-hardened veteran coming home
- Jennifer Carpenter as U.S. Marshal Mamie Fossett, tackling espionage and frontier crime
- Augustus Prew as Paul, a young ranch hand facing the draft
- Janet Montgomery as Hillary, Spencer’s sharp-minded love interest
- Rumored: Matthew McConaughey as a mysterious Dutton ally
- Rumored: Samuel L. Jackson as a disciplined, no-nonsense Army officer
This ensemble promises powerful performances and unforgettable character dynamics.
Release Date, Episodes, and Franchise Connections
What We Know So Far
- Premiere: Fall 2026 on Paramount+
- Episodes: Expected to follow the 8-episode format of 1883 and 1923
- Filming locations: Montana and Utah—ensuring stunning, authentic landscapes
- Timeline connection: Bridges the story between 1923 and the modern Yellowstone series
This prequel strengthens the Dutton family timeline and reveals events that shaped future generations.
Why Yellowstone Fans Are Hyped
The buzz around Yellowstone 1944 is massive—and for good reason:
- The WWII setting adds emotional and historical depth
- The Duttons face their biggest challenges yet
- Sheridan’s storytelling blends action with intimate family drama
- The cast promises award-level performances
- The visuals and tone feel bigger and more cinematic than ever
FAQs
Q1: What is Yellowstone 1944 about?
It follows the Dutton family during WWII, showing how war impacts the ranch, family leadership, and community life.
Q2: How does it connect to 1883 and 1923?
It continues the generational story, bridging the events of 1923 with the modern Yellowstone series.
Q3: Who stars in the prequel?
Brandon Sklenar, Jennifer Carpenter, Augustus Prew, Janet Montgomery, and rumored stars Matthew McConaughey and Samuel L. Jackson.
Q4: When will it premiere?
Fall 2026 on Paramount+, with an exact date to be announced.
Q5: Is the series focused only on the war?
No—while WWII shapes the story, the show centers on family, loyalty, ranch life, and survival.
Conclusion
Yellowstone 1944 promises one of the franchise’s most thrilling and emotional chapters yet. With its wartime setting, powerful cast, stunning landscapes, and high-stakes drama, the prequel is set to redefine the Dutton family saga. As we move closer to 2026, anticipation continues to build—and fans are ready for the next unforgettable ride through Yellowstone history.