Yellowstone 1969 is the newest prequel in Taylor Sheridan’s ever-growing Dutton universe. Set during the turbulent late 1960s, it follows Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar) – the wandering war hero we fell in love with in 1923 – as he finally tries to make his way home to Montana after years abroad.
The Long Road From Rumor to Reality
Fans have begged for more Spencer since 1923 Season 2 ended on that heartbreaking dock scene. Rumors swirled for years: “1968,” “1969,” “1973,” even cancellation fears after the writers’ strike. On November 2025, Paramount finally dropped the bomb – Yellowstone 1969 is locked for a 2026 premiere!
Why Yellowstone 1969 Matters Right Now
With Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 wrapping the modern story and 1923 done, 1969 is the missing link. It bridges the wild 1920s ranch wars to the modern Dutton empire we know today – and it’s coming exactly when fans need new Yellowstone the most.
Spencer Dutton’s Return: What We Know So Far
- Brandon Sklenar is 100% confirmed to reprise Spencer
- Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford will NOT appear (different era)
- Filming begins spring 2026 in Montana and Texas
- Expect 8–10 episodes on Paramount+
Yellowstone Prequels Timeline – Quick Comparison
| Series | Time Period | Main Characters | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1883 | 1883 | James & Margaret Dutton | Complete (1 season) |
| 1923 | 1923–1944 | Jacob, Cara, Spencer, Alex | Complete (2 seasons) |
| 1969 (new!) | Late 1960s | Spencer Dutton (adult) | Coming 2026 |
| Yellowstone | 1990s–2020s | John, Beth, Kayce, Rip | Ending 2024–2025 |
| The Madison | Present | New family (Michelle Pfeiffer) | Filming now |
Notable Confirmed Details & Fun Facts
- The Vietnam War and counter-culture movement will heavily influence the story
- Spencer is now in his late 60s/early 70s – expect a grizzled, world-weary version
- First Dutton story set in color from the very beginning
- Taylor Sheridan has called it “the most emotional Yellowstone chapter yet”
How to Prepare for Yellowstone 1969
- Rewatch 1923 Seasons 1 & 2 (especially the Spencer/Alexandra scenes)
- Brush up on late-1960s history – it’s going to matter
- Follow Brandon Sklenar on Instagram – he drops hints!
- Get Paramount+ ready – this one is NOT going to Peacock first
FAQs About Yellowstone 1969
When does Yellowstone 1969 premiere?
Expected sometime in 2026 (likely summer or fall).
Is Alexandra coming back?
Nothing confirmed yet, but fans are rioting for Julia Schlaepfer’s return.
Will it connect directly to Yellowstone Season 5?
Indirectly yes – it sets up how the ranch survived the 20th century.
Final Thoughts – Mark Your Calendars!
Yellowstone 1969 isn’t just another prequel – it’s the Spencer Dutton homecoming we’ve prayed for since 2023. After years of rumors, heartbreak, and fake leaks, 2026 is finally bringing our favorite lost Dutton back to the ranch. Get ready for tears, epic Montana scenery, and the closure every 1923 fan deserves.
Who else is counting the days? Drop your excitement level (1–10) in the comments and share this with your Yellowstone group chat – they NEED to know Spencer is coming home!