Cole Hauser has captivated audiences as Rip Wheeler, the rugged and fiercely loyal ranch foreman on Yellowstone. Fans love his no-nonsense attitude, unwavering devotion to Beth Dutton, and ability to handle anything thrown his way. But what does Hauser himself think about playing this iconic role?
In this article, we dive deep into Hauser’s thoughts on Rip Wheeler, his journey with Yellowstone, and how the role has impacted his career. Let’s explore what he has to say!
Who Is Cole Hauser?
Before we get into his Yellowstone experience, let’s take a quick look at Cole Hauser’s background.
- Early Career: Hauser has been in Hollywood for decades, with roles in Dazed and Confused, Good Will Hunting, and 2 Fast 2 Furious.
- Acting Roots: He comes from a family deeply embedded in the film industry, giving him a strong foundation in acting.
- Rise to Fame: While he had many notable roles before, Yellowstone took his career to another level.
How Cole Hauser Landed the Role of Rip Wheeler
Getting cast as Rip Wheeler wasn’t just luck—it was a combination of talent, experience, and the perfect fit for the character.
- Taylor Sheridan’s Vision: The Yellowstone creator had a clear vision for the show’s characters, and Hauser fit Rip Wheeler like a glove.
- Audition Process: Hauser’s strong screen presence and intense dedication to the role made him a standout choice.
- Instant Chemistry: His on-screen chemistry with Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton) made his casting even more perfect.
Cole Hauser’s Personal Connection to Rip Wheeler
Many actors take on roles that feel completely foreign, but for Hauser, playing Rip Wheeler felt natural.
- Similar Backgrounds: Hauser grew up with a rugged lifestyle, making Rip’s character second nature.
- Deep Understanding: He connects with Rip’s loyalty, strength, and moral code.
- Authentic Performance: His real-life experiences bring depth and realism to the character.
What Cole Hauser Loves About Playing Rip Wheeler
It’s clear that Hauser enjoys playing Rip, but what exactly does he love about the role?
1. The Depth of the Character
Rip isn’t just a tough cowboy—he has layers. Hauser appreciates the complexity of Rip’s personality, from his brutal toughness to his soft side with Beth.
2. The Action-Packed Scenes
From bar fights to cowboy brawls, Rip gets into some serious action. Hauser loves the physicality of the role and fully embraces the stunt work.
3. The Relationship with Beth Dutton
Rip and Beth’s relationship is one of the most beloved aspects of Yellowstone. Hauser has spoken about how much he enjoys working with Kelly Reilly and bringing their intense, passionate love story to life.
4. The Cowboy Lifestyle
Hauser has always been drawn to Westerns, so getting to live the cowboy life on screen feels like a dream come true.
Does Cole Hauser See Himself in Rip Wheeler?
Many fans wonder how much of Hauser is in Rip and vice versa. Here’s what he has said:
- Personality Similarities: He relates to Rip’s loyalty, toughness, and strong sense of justice.
- Not as Intense: Hauser admits he’s not as intense or brooding as Rip in real life.
- More Family-Oriented: While Rip is fully devoted to the Duttons, Hauser prioritizes his real-life family above all else.
How Yellowstone Changed Cole Hauser’s Career
Playing Rip Wheeler has been a game-changer for Hauser.
- Massive Popularity: Yellowstone has made him a household name.
- New Career Opportunities: He’s getting more leading roles and recognition in Hollywood.
- Dedicated Fan Base: The show has given him a loyal and passionate fan following.
Cole Hauser’s Thoughts on Yellowstone Ending
With Yellowstone coming to an end, Hauser has shared his feelings about saying goodbye to Rip.
- Emotional Goodbye: He admits it will be tough to leave the character behind.
- Excited for the Future: Hauser is looking forward to new acting challenges.
- Possible Spin-Off? Fans speculate whether Rip Wheeler could return in a future Yellowstone project.
What’s Next for Cole Hauser?
Even though Yellowstone is ending, Hauser isn’t slowing down.
- New Film Projects: He’s already lined up exciting new roles.
- Potential Westerns: Given his success as Rip, he may continue starring in Westerns.
- Expanding His Career: He’s open to different genres and opportunities.
Conclusion
Cole Hauser’s portrayal of Rip Wheeler has cemented him as one of the most beloved characters in Yellowstone history. His deep connection to the role, appreciation for the cowboy lifestyle, and incredible performance have made Rip an unforgettable part of TV history. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye to Yellowstone, fans can’t wait to see what Hauser does next.
