Fans of the hit TV show Yellowstone are still reeling from the explosive Season 5 finale that aired in late 2024. With the Dutton ranch finally sold, betrayals settled in blood, and beloved characters riding off into new chapters, many are asking the big question:
Is Yellowstone getting a Season 6? The original series was long announced as ending with Season 5, but recent updates have sparked hope for more episodes centered on fan-favorites Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler. In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything we know as of November 2025 – no official confirmation yet, but the future looks promising through extensions and spin-offs.
Yellowstone has been one of the biggest shows on television since 2018, drawing millions of viewers with its mix of family drama, ruthless power struggles, and stunning Montana landscapes. Created by Taylor Sheridan, it follows the Dutton family as they fight to protect their massive ranch from developers, rivals, and even each other. But behind-the-scenes issues, especially with star Kevin Costner, changed the show’s path. Let’s dive into the details in simple terms.
Why Did Yellowstone Originally End with Season 5?
The story of Yellowstone was building toward a natural close. Here’s what happened:
- Kevin Costner’s Exit: The actor, who played family patriarch John Dutton, left the show midway through Season 5. Scheduling conflicts with his movie Horizon: An American Saga, plus reported tensions over scripts and pay, led to his departure. In the show, John Dutton was killed off early in Season 5 Part 2 – a shocking murder that shifted focus to his children.
- A Satisfying Finale: The last episode, titled “Life Is a Promise,” wrapped up major storylines. Beth Dutton avenged her father by taking down her brother Jamie. Kayce Dutton helped sell the ranch back to the Broken Rock Indian Reservation, fulfilling a long-time prophecy from the spin-off 1883. Beth and Rip headed to a new life in Montana, free from the ranch’s curse.
Many cast members, like Kelly Reilly (Beth), called it the true ending of the core story. Paramount Network promoted Season 5 as the final one back in 2023.
Key Events in the Yellowstone Season 5 Finale (Spoiler Alert!)
| Event | What Happened | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| John Dutton’s Death | Murdered off-screen, linked to a land deal betrayal | Removed the main character; forced the family to fight without him |
| Jamie vs. Beth Clash | Beth kills Jamie after he orchestrates threats | Ended the sibling rivalry for good |
| Ranch Sale | Sold to Thomas Rainwater and the tribe for a symbolic price | Broke the “curse” of owning the land; freed surviving Duttons |
| Beth and Rip’s Future | Move to a new ranch in western Montana | Set up potential for more stories away from Yellowstone |
| Kayce’s Choice | Keeps a small part of the land for his family but rejects the brand | Shows peace and a fresh start |
This table shows how the finale tied up loose ends while leaving room for new adventures.
Rumors of Yellowstone Season 6: What Changed?
Even though Season 5 felt final, reports started swirling in 2024 about continuing the show:
- In August 2024, outlets like Variety and Deadline reported talks for a Yellowstone Season 6 led by Kelly Reilly (Beth) and Cole Hauser (Rip). No deals were signed at first, but the idea was to keep the flagship series going without Kevin Costner.
- By December 2024, just before the finale, news shifted: Instead of a straight Season 6, Paramount is developing a spin-off series starring Beth and Rip. It will likely include “Yellowstone” in the title (like The Yellowstone: Beth and Rip or similar) and feature other returning cast members.
- As of November 2025, this new show is moving forward. Taylor Sheridan is writing it, and it’s seen as the closest thing to a direct continuation. It’s not officially called “Season 6,” but for fans, it feels like the story picking up right where it left off.
Cole Hauser has publicly said he’s excited for more, telling interviewers “Let’s do it!” Kelly Reilly has been quieter but is reportedly on board.
Will Kevin Costner Return for Yellowstone Season 6 or the Spin-Off?
No. Kevin Costner has confirmed multiple times that he’s done with the role. He prioritized his movies and felt the show moved on without properly resolving his character’s arc. There’s no bad blood mentioned recently, but don’t expect John Dutton back – except maybe in flashbacks.
What’s Next in the Yellowstone Universe? Spin-Offs Keep the Story Alive
Taylor Sheridan isn’t done with this world. Paramount is expanding it big time:
Upcoming Yellowstone Spin-Offs and Prequels
| Show Title | Type | Main Stars | Status (as of Nov 2025) | What It’s About |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Madison | Contemporary sequel | Michelle Pfeiffer, Matthew Fox | Premiering 2025 | A wealthy family faces drama in Montana’s Madison River valley; possible Dutton crossovers |
| 1923 Season 2 | Prequel | Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren | Premiered February 2025 | Dutton ancestors during Prohibition and the Great Depression |
| Beth & Rip Spin-Off | Direct continuation | Kelly Reilly, Cole Hauser | In active development | Follows Beth and Rip’s new life; closest to Yellowstone Season 6 |
| 1944 | Prequel | TBD | Announced | World War II era Dutton family stories |
| Possible Kayce Spin-Off | Sequel idea | Luke Grimes | Early talks at CBS | Kayce and his family after the ranch sale |
These projects mean even if the original Yellowstone doesn’t get a numbered Season 6, fans will get plenty more Dutton-style drama.
Why Fans Love Yellowstone So Much
In simple words, Yellowstone hooks viewers with:
- Intense family fights (think betrayals and revenge)
- Beautiful ranch life mixed with modern threats like big companies wanting the land
- Strong characters: Tough Beth, loyal Rip, wise Kayce
- Themes of legacy, loyalty, and the American West
It’s not just a cowboy show – it’s about what people will do to protect their home and family.
Is Yellowstone Season 6 Happening? The Bottom Line in 2025
Officially? No – the main Yellowstone series ended with Season 5’s emotional finale in 2024. But practically? Yes! The upcoming Beth and Rip-focused spin-off is basically Yellowstone Season 6 in everything but name. It will continue the present-day story that fans crave, without Kevin Costner but with the same heart-pounding action.
Paramount knows how popular the show is (it often beats network TV ratings), so they’re smart to keep it going through this “soft reboot.” Expect announcements soon on a release date – possibly late 2025 or 2026 on Paramount+ or the Paramount Network.
If you’re a die-hard fan, rewatch the series on Peacock or Paramount+ to prep for what’s next. The Duttons aren’t riding off into the sunset just yet – their legacy is stronger than ever!