In shocking, unexpected news, Yellowstone as we all know it is coming to an end. Deadline reports that creator Taylor Sheridan, the Paramount Network, and Paramount Global are bringing the hit ranching drama to a close, with star Kevin Costner moving on, and a new series led by Matthew McConaughey on the way.
“We have no news to report. Kevin Costner is a big part of Yellowstone, and we hope that’s the case for a long time to come. Thanks to the brilliant mind of Taylor Sheridan, we are always working on franchise expansions of this incredible world he has built. Matthew McConaughey is a phenomenal talent with whom we’d love to partner,” a Paramount Network spokesperson told Deadline.
Except, it’s not quite so simple. Reportedly, problems with Costner arose about his schedule, with the actor wanting to work fewer days than originally set. The report says the issue has led to “morale issues” on set, and a proposal made by Costner to the studio was rejected. Seems like a silly reason to conclude what has been a monster hit for Paramount+, with Sheridan launching an entire universe of shows following the Dutton family saga.
And perhaps that’s why this can happen at all. Sheridan has found so much success with Yellowstone spinoffs that this might be just a bump in the road. It’s more curious for Costner, throwing away such a cushy gig. But then again he’s nearly 70 years old. And who knows? He’s probably hotter now than he’s been in the last 20 years. Costner can probably write his own ticket for a new project that’ll give him the schedule he wants.
As for this new McConaughey series, it’ll continue telling a different aspect of the Dutton Family drama, with some characters from Yellowstone showing up. The report goes on to say the current season could be the last, wrapping up with the conclusion of the second half.
More on this to come, for sure. Stories like this don’t just come out of nowhere and then vanish.
