The door is never fully closed,” the actor teases as Sheridan expands the Dutton universe once again.
As Taylor Sheridan prepares to usher in 1944, the next major chapter in the Yellowstone saga, fans have been buzzing about one question: Will Spencer Dutton return?
Now, Brandon Sklenar, who captivated audiences as the rugged, haunted Spencer in 1923, is finally addressing the speculation.
“I love Spencer. I’d return in a heartbeat.”
In a recent interview, Sklenar revealed that conversations about Spencer’s fate have been ongoing behind the scenes.
While he stopped short of confirming an official appearance, he made one thing clear:
“The door is never fully closed in the Yellowstone universe. I’d love to explore more of Spencer’s journey if it serves the story.”
His comments immediately reignited theories that Sheridan may weave Spencer—or at least his legacy—into 1944, the wartime prequel expected to follow the Dutton family through global conflict, economic struggle, and a rapidly changing American West.
How Spencer Fits Into ‘1944’
Sheridan is known for pulling characters across timelines, and Spencer’s arc—shaped by trauma, war, and love—has deep narrative ties to the ranch’s future.
Fans speculate that 1944 could include:
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An older Spencer appearing in flash-forwards or late-life scenes,
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A recast version depicting him in mid-life,
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Or the story of his descendants, especially if the series explores the generational impact of the Duttons who came before.
Sklenar Hints at Unresolved Storylines
Sklenar acknowledged that Spencer’s story in 1923 ended in a bittersweet separation from Alexandra, leaving emotional ground untouched.
“There are parts of Spencer’s journey that remain unfinished,” he said.
“If Taylor wants to go back to that well… I’d be there.”
What This Means for 1944
While no official casting news has confirmed Spencer’s involvement, Sklenar’s openness suggests that Sheridan may keep the character alive through memory, legacy, or surprise appearances—something the franchise has done before with great effect.
A Universe Built on Family, Memory, and Violence
Sheridan’s prequels thrive on lineage and trauma. Bringing Spencer into 1944 would bridge the emotional distance between 1923 and the modern Yellowstone timeline while honoring one of the franchise’s most beloved, tragic characters.
For now, Sklenar leaves fans with hope and a hint of mystery—exactly the kind of anticipation Sheridan loves to fuel.
