If you’re trying to figure out how to watch Yellowstone, you’re definitely not alone. The hit series starring Kevin Costner has one of the most confusing streaming setups in television history. From cable rights to exclusive streaming deals, Yellowstone’s availability changes so often that even longtime fans get lost.
But don’t worry—I’m breaking everything down in a way that’s simple, clear, and frustration-free. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly where to watch every episode, how to stream spin-offs, and what to expect next.
Let’s saddle up.
What Makes Yellowstone So Hard to Watch?
A Show With Massive Popularity… and Messy Streaming Rights
Yellowstone became a cultural phenomenon almost overnight. But unlike most modern shows that land on one major streaming service, Yellowstone’s distribution got tangled between cable networks and streaming platforms.
The result?
A lot of people asking: “Wait… where can I actually watch Yellowstone?”
Where to Watch Yellowstone Season 1–5
The Main Series Streaming Location
Right now, Yellowstone (Seasons 1–5) is available on:
Peacock
This is the official streaming home for all Yellowstone episodes released so far.
If you want to binge-watch the series from the beginning, Peacock is the place to go. New fans and longtime viewers end up here if they prefer streaming over cable.
Can You Watch Yellowstone on Paramount+?
This Is the Biggest Confusion Point
You’d assume that the flagship show of the Paramount Network would be on Paramount+, right?
Nope.
Despite being owned by Paramount Network, the streaming rights were sold to Peacock years ago. That contract is still active, which means Paramount+ can’t stream the main Yellowstone series.
Think of it like two ranchers fighting over cattle—except the cattle are TV episodes and the ranch is the streaming market.
Where to Watch New Yellowstone Episodes When They Air
Cable Is Still a Major Option
New episodes of Yellowstone premiere on the Paramount Network (not to be confused with Paramount+).
You can watch live through:
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Cable TV
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Satellite TV
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Live TV streaming services that include Paramount Network
Popular live TV streaming options include:
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YouTube TV
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Hulu + Live TV
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Sling TV (with the correct channel bundle)
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Philo
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DirecTV Stream
If you want to catch episodes the moment they drop, live TV is your best bet.
Where to Buy Yellowstone Episodes Digitally
For Viewers Who Want to Own Episodes
If you prefer to buy episodes or entire seasons instead of subscribing to streaming platforms, you can purchase Yellowstone digitally through:
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Amazon Prime Video
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Apple TV / iTunes
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Google Play
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Vudu
This is ideal for fans who like permanent access without monthly fees.
How to Watch Yellowstone Without Cable
Stream It the Easy Way
If you’ve cut the cord, watching Yellowstone is still simple:
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Binge past seasons: Peacock
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Watch new episodes live: Philo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling (depending on your channel lineup)
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Buy episodes: Amazon, Apple, Google Play
No cable box required.
How to Watch Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 (The Final Episodes)
What We Know About the Release
The remaining episodes of Season 5 are expected to air exclusively on the Paramount Network first. After the season finishes airing, they will likely head to Peacock, just like previous seasons.
Paramount Network → Peacock
Same pattern, same rights deal.
Where to Watch the Yellowstone Spin-Offs
The Dutton Universe Explained
Fans don’t just want Yellowstone—they want the entire franchise.
1883
Streaming on Paramount+
1923
Streaming on Paramount+
Lawmen: Bass Reeves (connected but not identical)
Streaming on Paramount+
Upcoming Spin-Offs
Shows like 6666 (Four Sixes Ranch) are expected to land on Paramount+, though release details may vary.
So here’s the rule:
Yellowstone = Peacock
Spin-offs = Paramount+
Crazy? Yes.
Confusing? Absolutely.
True? Unfortunately.
Why the Yellowstone Streaming Setup Is So Complicated
The Rights Deal That Changed Everything
Here’s the simplified version:
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Yellowstone was created before Paramount+ existed.
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Paramount sold streaming rights to Peacock.
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Paramount+ launched later—but didn’t own streaming rights to its biggest show.
Now both companies are stuck honoring old contracts.
It’s like selling your car before realizing you needed it later.
Can You Watch Yellowstone for Free?
Limited Options
Here are the only legitimate free options:
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Free trials (Peacock, Philo, Hulu + Live TV, or YouTube TV)
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Special promotions through cable providers
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Occasional free episodes released by the Paramount Network
But complete seasons aren’t available for free anywhere at the moment.
Best Way to Watch Yellowstone if You’re a New Viewer
Go With the Simple Route
If you’re just starting Yellowstone today, the easiest plan is:
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Get Peacock to watch Seasons 1–5
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Use a live TV app (like Philo or YouTube TV) to watch new episodes on Paramount Network
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Use Paramount+ only if you want to watch the spin-offs
This covers everything in the Yellowstone universe.
How to Watch Yellowstone Outside the U.S.
International Streaming Options
Availability varies by country, but here are the most common platforms outside the United States:
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Paramount+ (in some regions)
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Amazon Prime Video (often with season purchases)
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Local cable or streaming providers depending on licensing deals
In some cases, digital purchase platforms like Apple or Google Play offer the show even when streaming services don’t.
What to Know Before You Start Watching Yellowstone
A Quick Overview for New Viewers
Yellowstone is more than ranch drama—it’s a blend of:
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Family conflict
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Land battles
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Western grit
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Political tension
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Romance
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Action
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Stunning scenery
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Multi-generational storytelling
If you’re looking for a show with depth, emotion, and edge-of-your-seat twists, Yellowstone delivers all of that and more.
Will Yellowstone Ever Move to Paramount+?
The Big Question Fans Keep Asking
For now, Peacock holds the rights fair and square. Unless Paramount buys back those rights (which would require a massive payout), Yellowstone is staying put.
So don’t delete your Peacock subscription anytime soon.
Conclusion
Figuring out how to watch Yellowstone shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle—but here we are. With complicated streaming rights and multiple platforms involved, it’s no surprise fans get confused. The good news? Once you know where each part of the Dutton universe lives, it becomes much easier.
Peacock handles the main series.
Paramount Network airs new episodes.
Paramount+ hosts all the spin-offs.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or returning for another rewatch, Yellowstone is absolutely worth your time. Grab your boots, settle in, and enjoy one of the most talked-about shows in modern TV history.
FAQs
1. Is Yellowstone on Paramount+?
Not the main series. Only spin-offs like 1883 and 1923 are on Paramount+.
2. Where can I watch all seasons of Yellowstone?
Peacock is the exclusive streaming home for Seasons 1–5.
3. How can I watch new Yellowstone episodes live?
Watch them on the Paramount Network through cable or live TV streaming apps.
4. Can I watch Yellowstone for free?
Only through free trials or occasional free episodes on Paramount Network.
5. Are the Yellowstone spin-offs connected to the main show?
Yes—1883 and 1923 explore the Dutton family history and expand the universe.
