If you thought the Dutton family drama couldn’t get any wilder, buckle up. The first official trailer for Yellowstone: 1944 is finally here, and it’s giving us goosebumps, tears, and pure cowboy adrenaline in under two minutes. This prequel is about to rewrite everything we love about the Yellowstone universe.
What Is Yellowstone: 1944?
Yellowstone: 1944 is the newest prequel spin-off in Taylor Sheridan’s ever-expanding universe. Set during World War II, it follows a younger generation of Duttons fighting to protect the ranch while the world falls apart around them. Think 1883’s grit meets 1923’s elegance – but with bombs, ration books, and even more family secrets.
How It Fits Into the Yellowstone Timeline
- 1883 → Origin story of the Duttons arriving in Montana
- 1923 → Generation facing Prohibition and the Great Depression
- 1944 → WWII era, global war threatens the ranch like never before
- 6666 → Modern-day Texas spin-off (in development)
- Present-day Yellowstone (Seasons 1–5+)
Why This Trailer Has Fans Losing Their Minds
The two-minute trailer is packed with sweeping Montana vistas, explosive action, and that signature Sheridan dialogue that hits you right in the chest. From air-raid sirens over the ranch to a Dutton in uniform riding back home – it’s emotional, gorgeous, and intense.
Key Moments You Can’t Unsee
- A B-17 bomber flying dangerously low over the Yellowstone ranch
- Young Spencer Dutton (possibly) returning from war
- Elsa’s voiceover narration from beyond the grave (!?)
- A brutal fistfight in the snow that ends with “This land is all we have left”
- The final shot of the Yellowstone sign burning in the distance…
Cast & Characters: Who’s Riding Into 1944?
Rumored and confirmed faces include Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren reprising their 1923 roles in flashbacks, plus new blood like Brandon Sklenar and Julia Schlaepfer returning as Spencer and Alex.
| Prequel | Time Period | Main Threats | Lead Actors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1883 | 1880s | Wilderness, bandits | Tim McGraw, Faith Hill |
| 1923 | 1920s–30s | Depression, boarding schools | Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren |
| 1944 (new!) | 1940s | WWII, land developers | Ford, Mirren + new cast |
| Yellowstone (now) | Present day | Developers, politics | Kevin Costner (until S5) |
When & Where to Watch Yellowstone: 1944
Expected to premiere late 2025 or early 2026 exclusively on Paramount+. Filming is already underway in Montana and Texas.
Notable Facts & Quick Stats
- Over 12 million viewers watched the Season 5 premiere – the biggest cable launch ever
- Taylor Sheridan now has 4 active Yellowstone shows
- The 1944 script reportedly made grown crew members cry on set
| Show | Seasons Aired | Avg. Viewers (millions) |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowstone | 5+ | 11.5 |
| 1883 | 1 | 10.6 |
| 1923 | 2 | 8.9 |
| 1944 (upcoming) | TBA | Projected 12M+ |
Expert Predictions
Insiders say 1944 will be the darkest chapter yet – expect major Dutton deaths, forbidden romances, and the ranch almost being lost forever.
FAQs About Yellowstone: 1944
Will Kevin Costner appear?
Unlikely – this is set 80 years before present day.
Is it as violent as the original?
Early reports say yes – and maybe even more.
Do I need to watch 1923 first?
Highly recommended – huge connections incoming!
Final Thoughts – Are You Ready for This?
The Yellowstone: 1944 trailer isn’t just good – it feels like the bold, heartbreaking chapter we’ve all been waiting for. If you love the Dutton saga, drop everything and watch it right now. Then come back and tell me in the comments: Which moment wrecked you the most?