I’m a ‘Yellowstone’ Superfan: Here’s My Honest Review of the New Spinoff ‘Dutton Ranch’
What feels familiar, what’s totally new—and the one change that could make it a breakout hit
Key Takeaways
- Annette Bening's Beulah Jackson steals scenes as a compelling villain.
- Ed Harris' Everett McKinney reveals a softer side of Beth that makes viewers fall in love.
- A crossover with 'Marshals' or 'Landman' would take 'Dutton Ranch' to the next level.
As a Yellowstone fan I was ecstatic to learn that I got early access to the franchise’s newest spinoff, Dutton Ranch, which follows Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) after they relocate from Montana to Texas. But after watching the first four episodes, I was surprised to discover Dutton Ranch had a completely different feel from Yellowstone—even though it was originally pitched as Yellowstone Season 6. Below, I share my honest thoughts on Dutton Ranch and reveal the one thing that would make the show a small-screen hit.
How I became a ‘Yellowstone’ superfan
I was born and raised in Colorado, but most of my extended family lives in Montana and Wyoming. Because of that, I spent a lot of time on real ranches, interacting with real cowboys. Initially, I was very skeptical about watching the Yellowstone universe. After all, I know what it takes to eat, sleep and breathe cattle ranching.
Eventually, my curiosity got the best of me and I binge-watched Yellowstone, then its two prequels—1883 and 1923—and became obsessed. I loved the entire Dutton family and was pleasantly surprised to see how accurately they portrayed cattle ranching, horseback riding and more. The only thing they miss the mark on is the day-to-day life. Thankfully, none of the cowboys I know kill and blackmail people like the Duttons do.
That didn’t keep me from becoming obsessed with the series, and when it ended in 2024 I was devastated. Sure, I still had 1923 Season 2 to look forward to, but that show didn’t have my favorite character, Beth Dutton. Enter Dutton Ranch.
Ever since the show was announced I’ve been aggressively scouring the internet and social media for updates. And then I got one: It would be premiering on Friday, May 15, and I was invited to the press junket and world premiere. I was also given access to the first four episodes, which I binge-watched right away.
My ‘Dutton Ranch’ review
Since Dutton Ranch centers around Beth and Rip, I had a feeling I was going to love it. And I was correct. Beth and Rip’s chemistry, spice, sizzle and entrancing dynamic take center stage in the new series. It’s so magnetic you almost don’t want to leave their scenes.
Almost. Then Annette Bening shows up. Her character Beulah Jackson captivated me and reminded me of a good old-fashioned wild West villain. She has style, money, a complex family dynamic and, of course, cattle. Honestly, if Sheridan needs another Yellowstone prequel, I recommend one centered around the Jackson family. I won’t spoil anything, but I’ll say I need more information, background, drama and more.
Ed Harris also stole my heart, but in a different way. His character, Everett McKinney, allows viewers to see a softer side of Beth that makes her even more lovable. And his wit, compassion and caring energy make you melt.
What could make ‘Dutton Ranch’ better
Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing about Dutton Ranch. The only thing I would suggest is a crossover with Marshals, another Yellowstone spinoff, or Landman, Sheridan’s other modern-day Texas drama.
In fact, why doesn’t Paramount just combine them all into one big “Sheridan Saga” episode? Now, that would be a wild Western trip.
Dutton Ranch premieres on Paramount on Friday, May 15.
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