Is the Baby in 1923 Related to Kevin Costner’s John Dutton?
The Yellowstone universe is nothing if not a tangled web of family drama, sweeping landscapes, and multi-generational legacy. And if you’re watching 1923, you’ve likely asked yourself: “Is that baby related to John Dutton—the very one played by Kevin Costner in Yellowstone?”
Let’s unravel the family tree and figure out whether this new baby in 1923 is truly part of the same Dutton bloodline as the modern-day patriarch we’ve come to know.
The Dutton Family Tree, Simplified
The Dutton family saga starts with 1883, featuring James and Margaret Dutton, the original pioneers of the Yellowstone ranch. Then comes 1923, starring Jacob Dutton (James’ brother) and his wife Cara. They’ve taken in James’ surviving sons, raising them as their own.
Here’s the breakdown:
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James Dutton → Father of John Dutton Sr. and Spencer Dutton
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John Dutton Sr. → Father of Jack Dutton
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Jack Dutton → Expected to be the father of John Dutton II
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John Dutton II → Father of John Dutton III (Kevin Costner’s character)
Now, here’s where things get juicy.
Who Had the Baby in 1923?
In Season 2, Alexandra (Spencer’s wife) reveals that she’s pregnant. That changes everything.
Until now, fans believed John Dutton III descended from Jack Dutton (John Sr.’s son), but Alexandra’s pregnancy throws a new possibility into the mix—what if Spencer and Alexandra are actually the great-grandparents of John Dutton III?
Why Spencer and Alexandra Might Be John Dutton III’s Ancestors
If Spencer and Alexandra’s baby turns out to be a boy named John, and he grows up to be John Dutton II, that would directly link Kevin Costner’s character to 1923 through Spencer—not Jack.
This theory has gained traction for a few reasons:
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Spencer has had a more in-depth character arc, hinting at bigger legacy plans.
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Jack and Elizabeth (his fiancée) suffered a miscarriage, leaving their bloodline uncertain.
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The show seems to be building up Spencer and Alexandra’s story as foundational.
So yes—it’s very possible that the baby is John Dutton II, the father of Kevin Costner’s John Dutton III.
Why the Answer Isn’t Clear (Yet)
1923 has been careful not to reveal too much too soon. The writers are known for playing the long game, slowly unraveling the Dutton legacy over multiple seasons and spin-offs.
Until someone says “Meet baby John Dutton II,” we’re still in the land of fan theories—but it’s looking more likely with each episode.
The Bigger Picture: The Legacy of the Dutton Ranch
Whether the baby belongs to Jack or Spencer, the message is clear: the Dutton name—and the Yellowstone Ranch—is meant to live on.
In Yellowstone, Kevin Costner’s John Dutton fights tooth and nail to preserve that legacy. And the events of 1923 are planting the seeds of that relentless dedication. The baby, whoever he is, represents the continuation of a family both blessed and cursed by their land.
Conclusion
So, is the baby in 1923 related to Kevin Costner’s John Dutton?
Most likely—yes.
And there’s a strong chance he’s more than just related. He could be John Dutton II, making him John Dutton III’s father.
While the show hasn’t confirmed it outright, all signs point to a deeper connection that ties Spencer’s storyline directly to the modern-day Dutton dynasty.
Until then, fans will keep analyzing every glance, every name drop, and every family dinner scene looking for clues.
FAQs
1. Is the baby in 1923 officially confirmed to be John Dutton II?
No official confirmation yet, but the storyline strongly hints at it.
2. Who are the likely parents of John Dutton II?
Currently, the two possible couples are Jack and Elizabeth or Spencer and Alexandra. Due to recent plot developments, Spencer and Alexandra seem the more likely candidates.
3. How is Jacob Dutton related to Kevin Costner’s John Dutton?
Jacob is John Dutton III’s great-granduncle, making him part of the same family line but not a direct ancestor.
4. Did Jack and Elizabeth have a child in 1923?
Elizabeth suffered a miscarriage, casting doubt on whether their bloodline continues into future generations.
5. Why does it matter who the baby is?
Because the Dutton legacy is central to the entire Yellowstone universe. Understanding who passes down the land helps connect all the series into one epic family saga.
