Unforgettable Yellowstone Characters The Franchise Must Keep Post-Season 5 & Kevin Costner's Departure

The fate of Yellowstone patriarch John Dutton appears to be sealed due to Kevin Costner's uncertain contract situation. However, the stories of the remaining Yellowstone cast members are far from concluded. With John Dutton's inevitable demise in season 5, whether on-screen or off-screen, the series opens up a plethora of possibilities for his children, the ranchers, and both allies and foes of the Dutton family. The aftermath of John's death promises to provide the most captivating plot for the yet-to-be-filmed latter part of season 5, focusing on how the remaining characters cope with his loss and either seek revenge or seize the power vacuum.

The Yellowstone franchise has extended beyond the original series, encompassing prequels, spinoffs, and a direct sequel series. This offers hope that the stories of beloved supporting characters can continue to be explored in some manner. Here are 10 characters who the franchise must further develop after Yellowstone season 5.

10 Beth Dutton

John Dutton's daughter, Beth, is a mesmerizing character, showcasing a compelling blend of intensity and vindictiveness. However, beneath her icy and at times cruel demeanor, lies a remarkably loyal and compassionate individual who would go to great lengths to safeguard her loved ones. In the unfortunate event of John Dutton's demise, it is highly likely that Beth would be the first among the show's protagonists to seek vengeance, taking on a central role in the latter part of season 5. Considering the logical progression of her storyline, it seems fitting for Beth's journey to continue in a direct sequel series featuring Matthew McConaughey. Alternatively, an equally captivating option could be a Yellowstone spinoff wherein Beth resurrects her role as a corporate assassin.

9 Jamie Dutton

During the season 5 hiatus, Jamie found himself caught between maintaining loyalty to his family and pursuing his own interests. He enlisted the cunning assistance of Sarah Atwood to devise a forceful resolution to deal with his sister once and for all. This internal struggle has laid the groundwork for a potentially captivating redemption arc. Jamie, with his relentless determination, may meet a tragic fate sooner rather than later, be it while seeking retribution for his adoptive father or safeguarding the family ranch. If he manages to survive season 5, his narrative seamlessly transitions into the subsequent series.

8 Rip Wheeler

Rip's story will undoubtedly be intertwined with his wife's in some way or another; their separation during the season 5 break demonstrated the fearlessness of the Yellowstone creators in allowing them to operate independently. In the event of John's death, it will become Rip's responsibility to continue the battle to protect the Yellowstone ranch on the ground. Being the leader and most loyal of the ranch's branded men, Rip has made it clear that he will remain on the ranch until his dying breath, hinting at a foreboding future. If he manages to survive, it would be quite thrilling to witness a more intense spinoff series led by Rip, focusing on his interactions with the other ranchers as they confront thieves, developers, and bikers.

7 Kayce Dutton

Kayce, despite being one of the most pure-hearted individuals on the show, possesses a fascinating paradox. His ruthless efficiency as a killer makes him an ideal candidate for his own spinoff. Furthermore, Kayce's story doesn't necessarily rely on the ranch. In season 5, he was offered a position as a special investigator on the Broken Rock Reservation, which presents the perfect premise for a Kayce-focused spinoff series. It aligns with his character development for him to transform into a compassionate vigilante, akin to the Punisher, protecting the Reservation and its inhabitants. This role would allow him to confront criminals using his badge as well as resort to morally ambiguous methods.

6 Monica Dutton

5 Tate Dutton

In contrast to Beth and Rip, Monica and Kayce are more likely to stay together in any Yellowstone sequel or spinoff series. The previously mentioned theory about a spinoff centered around Kayce works just as effectively, if not better, as a show featuring both Kayce and Monica. This is due to Monica's demonstrated willingness to take action and protect the innocent. Furthermore, Monica has stronger connections to the Broken Rock Reservation, so it makes complete narrative sense for her to divert her attention from the ranch and focus on her own people.

Given what Yellowstone fans have seen of Tate so far, his future is captivating. His deep affection for his grandfather and the ranch surpasses that of his parents. As the potential sole successor of the Dutton legacy, he may feel a sense of duty to protect his grandfather's cherished assets. Although he might be too young to directly engage in the battle for the ranch in a spinoff or sequel series, if the franchise continues to flourish, Tate could lead an enthralling sequel that pivots the focus back to the ranch, reminiscent of the original Yellowstone series.

4 Thomas Rainwater

Thomas Rainwater, the central figure on the Broken Rock Reservation, has shifted his focus in recent seasons of Yellowstone. Instead of solely battling John Dutton for territory expansion, Rainwater now strives to maintain his current position as chairman and safeguard the reservation. Losing his chairman role would diminish his power, but grant him greater freedom to operate covertly. Assisted by the wise and lethal Mo Brings Plenty, Rainwater is a strong contender for a captivating spinoff series chronicling the ongoing struggle for the Broken Rock Reservation.

3 Angela Blue Thunder

Angela Blue Thunder, a cunning and strategic business consultant, could be a valuable addition to a spinoff of Broken Rock Reservation. Rainwater enlists her help to fend off Market Equities and maintain control over the Reservation. Although Angela has been portrayed as an adversary in Yellowstone by trying to remove Rainwater as reservation chairman, future sequels or spinoff series could portray her as an anti-hero. Her ultimate goal of safeguarding Broken Rock and expanding its territory aligns with Rainwater's own aspirations. As the franchise advances and faces the imminent threat of a pipeline, Angela's unique skills would prove indispensable.

2 Jimmy Hurdstrom

1 Senator Lynell Perry

While details remain scarce, Jimmy Hurdstrom is poised to take the lead in the spinoff series 6666, centered around the fabled Texas ranch bearing the same name. Jimmy's transformation from troublemaker to proficient rancher was one of the standout story arcs in the initial four seasons of Yellowstone, making it a logical choice to continue exploring his journey. In the latter part of season 5, it is likely that we will catch a glimpse of Jimmy's situation in Texas, yet it is imperative that he remains on his current trajectory to ensure a meaningful continuation of his story in 6666.

The former governor, now serving as a senator in Montana (and a love interest for John Dutton), holds a crucial and distinctive position within the Yellowstone franchise. She offers valuable insights into the larger conflicts taking place throughout the state. As a representative of Montana in Washington, her responsibility lies in combating threats through legislation rather than resorting to horses and guns. Season 5 set the stage for her to assume a significant role in the proposed pipeline for the Broken Rock Reservation, potentially intertwining her story with that of Thomas Rainwater and Angela Blue Thunder in a spinoff or the forthcoming sequel series.