The Yellowstone saga has been a wild ride for fans, full of family drama, power struggles, and breathtaking scenery. But as we approach the final episodes of Yellowstone Season 5, part two, there’s one question lingering in the air: Is this really the end of the Dutton family story? According to Yellowstone star Kelly Reilly, the answer is clear—yes. In a recent interview, the actress, who plays the fierce and fiery Beth Dutton, confirmed that the show is absolutely coming to an end, signaling the close of one of the most talked-about series of the decade.
While the drama behind the scenes—including the much-publicized fallout between star Kevin Costner and creator Taylor Sheridan—has led to significant changes, Reilly’s comments put any lingering speculation to rest. Here’s a closer look at what she had to say, what this means for the future of the Yellowstone universe, and what fans can expect from the grand finale of the iconic series.
Kelly Reilly on the Finale: “We Are Absolutely Ending This Show”
In a candid interview with The New York Times, Kelly Reilly was asked about the upcoming conclusion of Yellowstone Season 5. Her response was unequivocal. “It’s an ending,” she said. “We are absolutely ending this show.”
Fans of Yellowstone have been anxiously awaiting the final chapter of the Dutton family saga, and Reilly’s words only reinforce what many suspected. The show’s finale will be a definitive end to the series, closing the door on the story of John Dutton, Beth, Kayce, and the rest of the Dutton clan.
Despite the behind-the-scenes drama that threatened the future of the show—particularly Kevin Costner’s departure—Reilly’s comments suggest that the show’s creative team has always planned for a conclusive ending. The absence of Costner’s John Dutton in Season 5 part two is a clear signal that the story will wrap up, likely in a way that honors the legacy of the character without his physical presence.
The Finality of John Dutton’s Absence
One of the biggest questions surrounding Yellowstone Season 5 is how the show will handle the absence of its central character, Kevin Costner’s John Dutton. It’s been widely speculated that the character will die off-screen in the first episode of Part II, which would explain Costner’s exit from the show. While Paramount has remained tight-lipped about the specifics, this theory seems to align with Reilly’s statement about the show coming to a definite close.
The death of John Dutton would mark the end of the character’s journey, which has been the emotional heart of the series. His decisions, actions, and love for his family have shaped the entire narrative of Yellowstone. With John gone, it seems the Dutton family will be left to figure out how to survive without their patriarch—and how to carry on the legacy of Yellowstone Ranch.
It’s a bold move by the show’s creators, but it also feels like the logical progression. With Costner’s departure, the narrative must shift, and what better way to do so than with a poignant, final goodbye to the character who has held everything together?
The End of ‘Yellowstone’? Not So Fast—More Spin-Offs Are Coming
While Yellowstone may be ending, the Yellowstone universe is far from over. Paramount has already announced multiple spin-offs that will continue to explore the world created by Taylor Sheridan. The future of the franchise, therefore, doesn’t hinge entirely on the fate of the Duttons.
At the time of Kevin Costner’s exit, rumors swirled about a potential spin-off featuring Yellowstone star Matthew McConaughey. It was widely speculated that McConaughey would star in a series set in the same universe as Yellowstone, and that several Yellowstone characters might make appearances. However, this plan was ultimately scrapped, leaving fans wondering what the next chapter would look like.
Instead of a McConaughey-led series, Paramount has since announced a new spin-off titled The Madisons. While The Madisons is set in the Yellowstone universe, it’s unclear how closely it will tie into the original series or whether any of the Yellowstone cast members will appear. Nevertheless, this is another step forward in Sheridan’s grand plan to expand his television empire, one that will likely keep fans invested in the world of Yellowstone for years to come.
While Kelly Reilly hasn’t revealed much about the future of Yellowstone spin-offs, she did mention that the show’s ending could open the door for new beginnings. “If there is a new beginning, it’s a new beginning,” Reilly said. This suggests that while Yellowstone may be over, the door is wide open for new stories to emerge from this vast universe.
Reilly Reflects on Her Time as Beth Dutton
While the fate of Yellowstone is uncertain, one thing is clear: Reilly has thoroughly enjoyed playing Beth Dutton. The character of Beth is one of the most complex and compelling on television, and Reilly’s portrayal of her has been nothing short of mesmerizing. But in her interview with The New York Times, Reilly admitted that she’s ready to move on from the role.
“Beth is a big energy,” Reilly said. “That’s not something in my body that I need. I love her, but I’m very happy to let her disappear.” It’s clear that after years of playing such an intense, fiery character, Reilly is ready to explore new challenges and roles.
But that doesn’t mean she doesn’t love Beth. “I’ve loved her,” Reilly admitted. “She’s been incredible to play. But, you know, it’s time to let her go.”
This type of honesty and reflection is rare in the entertainment industry, but it speaks to Reilly’s dedication to her craft. She’s given everything to her role as Beth Dutton, and now she’s ready to close that chapter of her career.
What’s Next for the ‘Yellowstone’ Universe?
While Yellowstone may be coming to an end, there’s still plenty to look forward to in Sheridan’s Yellowstone universe. As we mentioned earlier, the spin-off The Madisons is already in the works, and there are other projects in development, including the highly anticipated Yellowstone prequel series 1923, which stars Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford.
In fact, Yellowstone has already spawned several successful spin-offs, including 1883 and 1923, both of which explore the Dutton family’s roots and the history behind Yellowstone Ranch. These shows have become huge hits, and with the growing interest in the Yellowstone universe, it’s clear that Sheridan’s vision for this world is only just beginning.
While fans will undoubtedly mourn the end of Yellowstone, they can take comfort in the fact that the world of the Duttons will live on in some form. Whether it’s through new characters, new settings, or new conflicts, Sheridan’s universe is far from finished.
