Yellowstone fans have been anxiously awaiting the return of their favorite Western drama for its final chapters, and now that Season 5B is back on Paramount Network, there’s no shortage of drama both on-screen and off. One of the most intriguing comments came from Cole Hauser, who plays the fan-favorite Rip Wheeler on the show. In a recent interview, Hauser shared his thoughts on the possibility of Yellowstone continuing beyond its current season, and his reflections on the show’s impact.
Though there’s still a lot of uncertainty surrounding the fate of the show—especially after Kevin Costner’s unexpected exit—Hauser’s remarks have sparked new conversation. Could the Dutton saga continue without John Dutton? Could Rip take the reins in an extended universe of Yellowstone?
Let’s dive into Cole Hauser’s surprising take on the end of Yellowstone and explore the future of the beloved series.
“It Would Be a Shame to Stop a Great Thing”: Cole Hauser Weighs In
In a candid interview with People, Cole Hauser made it clear that he’s not ready to see Yellowstone come to an end. Hauser, who has played the rugged and loyal Rip Wheeler since the show’s first season, expressed his belief that it would be “a shame to stop a great thing.” While he described himself as “just a hired gun,” he added, “I believe the numbers speak for themselves and America has spoken.”
This comment carries significant weight, especially considering the massive success of Yellowstone. The show has become a cultural phenomenon, bringing Western drama back into the spotlight and garnering a dedicated fanbase around the world. Despite the uncertainty surrounding a possible Season 6, Hauser’s remarks suggest that there is still a demand for the show. In fact, the phrase “America has spoken” implies that fans’ loyalty and love for the series could potentially shape its future.
The Power of Yellowstone’s Popularity
Yellowstone has consistently delivered high ratings, both in terms of viewership and online engagement. The show’s ability to attract a wide audience, from fans of modern Westerns to viewers who appreciate its rich family drama, has helped it become one of the most-watched cable dramas in recent years. It’s no surprise that Hauser believes the fans have made their voices heard. After all, the massive success of the show is a testament to its lasting appeal.
While there have been numerous spin-offs, including 1883 and 1923, Yellowstone itself remains the crown jewel of Taylor Sheridan’s universe. If the Dutton saga were to end with Season 5, it would leave a massive hole in the hearts of its devoted fans. Hauser seems to recognize that, and his comments highlight his passion for continuing the story if the opportunity arises.
The Rip-Beth Dynamic: The Heart of Yellowstone Season 5
One of the most compelling aspects of Season 5 is the evolving relationship between Rip Wheeler and Beth Dutton. In past seasons, their romance has been full of tension, vulnerability, and power. But in the latest episodes, we see Rip stepping up as a true leader, not only running the Dutton ranch but also supporting Beth and their adopted son, Carter.
Hauser’s portrayal of Rip in Season 5 is more layered than ever, and he’s excited to show fans a different side of his character. In a previous interview with TVLine, Hauser teased, “You’re going to see a side of Rip you haven’t seen.” He added that Rip is taking his responsibilities seriously—managing the ranch, being a supportive husband to Beth, and helping Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) when needed. Hauser described Rip’s role as “doing all the things that John would want,” showing a man determined to uphold the legacy of the Dutton family.
The Complexity of Rip and Beth’s Relationship
As one of Yellowstone’s most complex and beloved relationships, the Rip-Beth dynamic has taken center stage in the latter half of Season 5. Hauser explained that Rip’s role as Beth’s husband is particularly important this season, as he’s not just trying to run the ranch but also helping Beth navigate the weight of her family’s legacy. Despite their tumultuous past, their bond has only deepened, and viewers are eager to see how their relationship evolves in the series’ final episodes.
In many ways, Rip represents the strength and resilience of the Dutton family—willing to sacrifice everything for the ones they love. This, coupled with his unwavering loyalty to John Dutton, makes him a cornerstone of the series. With Costner’s departure, it’s clear that Hauser’s Rip will become an even more crucial figure in the final act of Yellowstone’s story.
Kevin Costner’s Exit: What Does It Mean for Yellowstone?
Perhaps the most significant change facing Yellowstone in its final season is the departure of Kevin Costner, who has portrayed patriarch John Dutton since the series began. In April, Costner confirmed that he would not be returning for Season 5B or any future seasons of the show. His decision to leave has had a major impact on the direction of the series, as it forced the writers to come up with a way to explain John Dutton’s absence—and what that means for the Dutton family going forward.
John Dutton’s Sudden Exit in Season 5B
In the opening episode of Season 5B, viewers were shocked to see John Dutton tragically take his own life. This sudden and devastating turn of events has left fans reeling, and many are grappling with the emotional weight of losing one of television’s most iconic characters. Costner, in a heartfelt video message to fans, explained that his work on Horizon made it impossible for him to continue on the show.
Costner’s exit raises the question: can Yellowstone continue without him? While Hauser’s Rip is stepping into a larger role, it’s hard to deny that John Dutton’s absence leaves a massive void. The Dutton family, which has always been the beating heart of the show, is now without its central figure. For many, this shift feels like the beginning of the end for Yellowstone, and the series may never quite feel the same without Costner’s commanding presence.
What Lies Ahead for Yellowstone?
Though John Dutton is gone, the Yellowstone universe is far from over. Fans have speculated about the future of the Dutton family, and whether the franchise will continue with more spin-offs or even a potential revival of the main series. Hauser’s comments suggest that there’s still room for growth within the Yellowstone world, with the possibility of new storylines that could continue the Dutton legacy.
In fact, the show has already explored the backstories of other Dutton family members in 1883 and 1923. It’s possible that more spin-offs could focus on the younger generation, with characters like Kayce, Beth, and Rip continuing their journey. There’s even potential for a prequel or sequel that expands the Dutton family saga beyond the Montana ranch.
Conclusion: Will Yellowstone End, or Will the Legacy Live On?
Cole Hauser’s thoughts on Yellowstone’s future have added a new layer of intrigue to the conversation about the show’s eventual end. His belief that “America has spoken” suggests that the fans’ love for the series could shape its ultimate fate. As the show moves toward its final episodes, there are still many questions left unanswered—especially regarding the future of the Dutton family and the Yellowstone ranch.
While Kevin Costner’s exit marks a major turning point in the series, Hauser’s Rip is poised to carry the torch in the final chapters. Whether or not Yellowstone continues with a sixth season or further spin-offs, it’s clear that the Dutton legacy isn’t finished just yet. The future of Yellowstone is still uncertain, but one thing is for sure: this story has left an indelible mark on television, and fans are eager to see how it all ends.