If you’ve been glued to Yellowstone, you already know the thrill of dusty standoffs, family feuds, and untamed landscapes that keep your heart racing. But here’s the thing: the Western genre is far from riding off into the sunset. In fact, Hollywood has been serving up incredible Western TV shows for decades — each with its own mix of grit, drama, and raw human storytelling.
So, if you’re craving more ranch-life drama, gunslinging action, or frontier justice after Yellowstone, we’ve rounded up the 7 best Western TV shows that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. Deadwood (2004–2006)
The Gritty Gold Rush Saga
Deadwood isn’t just a Western — it’s a masterpiece. Set in the lawless town of Deadwood, South Dakota, during the 1870s, this HBO gem is as brutal as it is poetic.
Why Yellowstone Fans Will Love It
If you’re hooked on Yellowstone’s dark themes and morally gray characters, Deadwood takes that intensity up a notch. Ian McShane’s portrayal of Al Swearengen is unforgettable — as menacing as any villain in the Dutton universe.
2. Longmire (2012–2017)
Modern Sheriff, Old-School Justice
Based on Craig Johnson’s mystery novels, Longmire follows Sheriff Walt Longmire as he solves crimes in Wyoming while wrestling with personal demons.
Why Yellowstone Fans Will Love It
Much like John Dutton, Walt is a man of principle who often finds himself at odds with modern society. The stunning landscapes and tense plots will make you feel right at home.
3. Justified (2010–2015)
Cowboy Hat Meets Modern Law
Deputy U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, played by Timothy Olyphant, brings cowboy swagger into a modern-day setting. Set in Kentucky, this show blends Western charm with crime drama.
Why Yellowstone Fans Will Love It
If you enjoy the razor-sharp dialogue and complex characters of Yellowstone, Justified delivers in spades. Raylan’s cool demeanor and moral dilemmas feel like the lawman’s version of Rip Wheeler.
4. Hell on Wheels (2011–2016)
The Railroad That Built America
Hell on Wheels tells the story of the Union Pacific Railroad construction, focusing on former Confederate soldier Cullen Bohannon. It’s gritty, raw, and steeped in history.
Why Yellowstone Fans Will Love It
The show’s themes of revenge, justice, and survival in a rugged world mirror the same energy that makes Yellowstone addictive.
5. 1883 (2021)
The Dutton Origin Story
You can’t talk about Western shows without tipping your hat to 1883. This prequel to Yellowstone dives into how the Dutton family first came to Montana.
Why Yellowstone Fans Will Love It
If you’re curious about the Duttons’ beginnings, this limited series starring Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, and Sam Elliott will hit you right in the gut. It’s beautifully shot, deeply emotional, and absolutely binge-worthy.
6. Godless (2017)
A Town Without Men
This Netflix miniseries is a fresh twist on the genre, set in a town run almost entirely by women after a mining accident kills most of the men.
Why Yellowstone Fans Will Love It
It’s visually stunning, emotionally charged, and packed with strong characters. If you loved Beth Dutton’s fiery spirit, you’ll find plenty of women here who could give her a run for her money.
7. The Son (2017–2019)
Texas Oil Meets Ranching Power
Starring Pierce Brosnan, The Son explores the rise of a Texas ranching and oil dynasty, spanning multiple generations.
Why Yellowstone Fans Will Love It
Sound familiar? Like Yellowstone, this show explores the cost of legacy, family ambition, and the brutal price of power.
Why the Western Genre Never Dies
Timeless Themes
At its heart, the Western isn’t about guns or cattle — it’s about people wrestling with loyalty, power, and survival. These are universal themes that never get old.
Yellowstone’s Modern Influence
Thanks to Yellowstone, a new generation of viewers has rediscovered Westerns. Its success has opened the door for reboots, spinoffs, and fresh takes that keep the genre alive and thriving.
How to Pick Your Next Western Show
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Crave Grit? Go with Deadwood or Hell on Wheels.
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Want Modern Twists? Try Longmire or Justified.
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Love Family Drama? Start with 1883 or The Son.
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Need Strong Women Leads? Watch Godless.
No matter your choice, you’re guaranteed to find the same heart-stopping tension and emotional storytelling that makes Yellowstone addictive.
Conclusion: The West Is Far From Finished
Yellowstone may be your favorite ride, but the Western frontier doesn’t end with the Duttons. From the dusty streets of Deadwood to the raw family drama of The Son, these seven shows prove that the genre is alive, kicking, and more addictive than ever. Saddle up — your next binge is waiting.
FAQs
1. Are all these shows similar to Yellowstone?
Not exactly, but they share themes like family conflict, survival, and the rugged spirit of the West.
2. Which Western show is most like Yellowstone?
1883 is directly tied to the Dutton story, but Longmire and The Son feel closest in tone and themes.
3. Are these shows family-friendly?
Most of them are gritty, with violence and mature themes, much like Yellowstone. Viewer discretion is advised.
4. Where can I watch these Western shows?
You’ll find them across streaming platforms like HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Peacock.
5. Will Yellowstone have more spinoffs?
Yes! Alongside 1883, there’s 1923 and more Dutton-centered projects in development.
