In a surprising revelation, Yellowstone star Cole Hauser, known for his portrayal of Rip Wheeler, disclosed that he and the show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan, had a physical altercation during their second meeting. This disclosure adds a new layer to the ongoing legal dispute between the two over their competing coffee brands.
The Unexpected Clash
In an April 2022 interview with Men’s Journal, Hauser shared that he and Sheridan “got into a fight” during their second encounter. He described his approach to conflicts, stating, “Sometimes I’m just tired of words, so let’s beat the s—t out of each other. Maybe at the end of it you’ll buy me a Guinness and I’ll buy you a Bushmills, and we’ll be done.”
The Coffee Brand Controversy
Fast forward to November 2023, and the relationship between Hauser and Sheridan took a legal turn. Sheridan’s company, Bosque Ranch, filed a lawsuit against Hauser’s Free Rein Coffee Company, alleging trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising. The core of the dispute centers around the logos of the two brands, both featuring overlapping letters “B” and “R” and “F” and “R,” respectively. Sheridan claims that Hauser’s logo is “confusingly similar” to his own, potentially misleading consumers about the origin of the products.
The Lawsuit Details
The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of Texas, seeks a jury trial and demands that Hauser’s company cease using the Free Rein brand. Additionally, Bosque Ranch requests that all products, marketing, and promotional materials related to Free Rein be destroyed. The legal action also seeks compensatory damages, alleging that Hauser’s brand is causing “irreparable damage” to Sheridan’s business.
Background on the Coffee Ventures
Both Sheridan and Hauser launched their coffee brands in 2023. Sheridan’s Bosque Ranch partnered with Community Coffee to produce Bosque Ranch Craft Coffee, emphasizing a connection to the “cowboy way of life.” Hauser’s Free Rein Coffee Company, established in October, also draws inspiration from Western themes, with blends named after cowboy culture.
Conclusion
The revelation of a past physical altercation between Hauser and Sheridan adds a personal dimension to their current legal battle over coffee branding. As the lawsuit progresses, it remains to be seen how this history will influence the public’s perception of both parties and their respective brands.
FAQs
1. What led to the physical altercation between Cole Hauser and Taylor Sheridan?
The specifics of the altercation remain unclear, but Hauser mentioned that sometimes he’s “tired of words” and prefers to resolve conflicts physically.
2. How are the logos of Bosque Ranch and Free Rein similar?
Both logos feature overlapping letters from their respective brand names, leading to claims of confusion and potential trademark infringement.
3. What are the consequences of the lawsuit for Cole Hauser’s coffee brand?
If the court rules in favor of Bosque Ranch, Hauser’s company may be required to cease using the Free Rein brand and destroy related materials. Additionally, compensatory damages may be awarded.
4. Have Cole Hauser and Taylor Sheridan commented on the lawsuit?
As of now, representatives for both parties have not provided public comments regarding the lawsuit.
5. Will this legal dispute affect the portrayal of Rip Wheeler on Yellowstone?
There is no official statement indicating that the lawsuit will impact Hauser’s role as Rip Wheeler on the show.
