Yellowstone 1944 is the brand-new prequel series coming in 2026, officially titled “1944” (sometimes called Yellowstone 1944). It follows the Dutton family right after World War II as they fight to keep the ranch during economic collapse, drought, and new enemies closing in.
The History Behind the New Prequel
Taylor Sheridan shocked fans at the end of Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 by announcing two new spin-offs. While “The Madison” is contemporary, 1944 goes back to the post-WWII generation—bridging the gap between 1923 and the modern Duttons we know today.
Why Yellowstone 1944 Matters in 2026
This isn’t just another prequel. With the main Yellowstone series ending, 1944 is now the most anticipated chapter in the entire universe. Early reactions say it could be darker and more violent than 1883 and 1923 combined.
How to Watch the Trailer & Stay Updated
The official Yellowstone 1944 trailer dropped on Paramount Network and YouTube November 2025. Search “Yellowstone 1944 official trailer 2026” – it’s already over 12 million views in the first week!
7 Jaw-Dropping Moments from the Trailer
- A Dutton returning broken from war
- Massive cattle die-off during the 1940s drought
- New Native American alliance (or war?)
- First look at the young John Dutton’s father
- A shocking ranch invasion at night
- Explosive line: “This land has taken everything from us… and it wants more.”
- That final gunshot fade-to-black
Cast Comparison Table: 1944 vs 1883 vs 1923
| Series | Lead Actors | Time Period | Main Threat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1883 | Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Sam Elliott | 1883 | Journey west, bandits |
| 1923 | Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren | 1923 | Great Depression, boarding schools |
| 1944 (2026) | TBD (rumored Kyle Red Silverstein as young Spencer?) | Post-WWII 1944–1950s | Drought, PTSD vets, government land grabs |
Timeline of Yellowstone Universe Table
| Show | Year Released | Story Year | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowstone | 2018–2025 | 2018–2025 | Ended (Season 5 Part 2) |
| 1883 | 2021–2022 | 1883 | Complete |
| 1923 | 2023–? | 1923 & 1940s | Season 2 filming |
| 1944 | 2026 | 1944–1950s | Trailer out, filming soon |
| The Madison | 2025–2026 | Present day | In production |
Expert Predictions & Fan Theories
Insiders say 1944 will finally show how the Duttons lost (and regained) huge chunks of the ranch—explaining why modern John Dutton is so paranoid about developers and the government.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does Yellowstone 1944 premiere?
Expected late 2026 on Paramount+.
Is Kevin Costner in 1944?
No, the story is set decades before John Dutton III.
Will it connect to Yellowstone Season 5 ending?
Yes—major plot threads from the finale reportedly pay off in 1944 flashbacks.
Final Thoughts – Are You Ready?
The Yellowstone 1944 trailer proves Taylor Sheridan isn’t slowing down. This might be the rawest, most emotional Dutton story yet. Drop your favorite moment from the trailer in the comments, share this with your Yellowstone group chat, and subscribe so you don’t miss the next update. The toughest battle for the ranch is about to begin—who do YOU think survives 1944?