Fandom Name: Yellowstone Universe 

The Yellowstone universe refers to the television series Yellowstone and its associated spin-offs, prequels, and related media. Created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, Yellowstone premiered on the Paramount Network in 2018 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. 

Here's everything you need to know about the "Yellowstone" universe:

Yellowstone is set in Montana, the series centers around the Dutton family, owners of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, the largest ranch in the state.

Led by patriarch John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner, the Duttons navigate a landscape fraught with family drama, conflicts with neighboring entities, and the ever-present threat of encroaching developers. The series explores the intricate dynamics at play along the borders of the Yellowstone Ranch, the Broken Rock Indian Reservation, and Yellowstone National Park.

Starring alongside Costner are Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton, Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton, Wes Bentley as Jamie Dutton, Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler, Kelsey Asbille as Monica Dutton, and Gil Birmingham as Chief Thomas Rainwater of the Broken Rock Indian Reservation.

As the series progresses, viewers are drawn into a world of power struggles, betrayal, and loyalty as the Duttons fight to preserve their legacy and way of life against mounting threats. With its stunning cinematography, compelling storytelling, and stellar ensemble cast, Yellowstone has captivated audiences and become a staple of prime-time television.

The series is set to conclude with its fifth season, with the second part scheduled to premiere on November 10, 2024, bringing the saga of the Dutton family to its dramatic conclusion.

Themes and Setting: Yellowstone explores themes of family, power, loyalty, and corruption against the backdrop of the rugged landscape of Montana. The show captures the beauty of the American West while delving into the complexities of modern-day ranching and land ownership.

Critical and Commercial Success: Yellowstone has garnered both critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase, becoming one of the most-watched cable television series. Its blend of intense drama, stunning cinematography, and compelling characters has resonated with audiences worldwide.

Spin-offs and Expansion: The success of Yellowstone has led to the development of several spin-offs and expansion projects within the universe. 

1883: 1883 is a Western drama series that premiered on December 19, 2021, on Paramount+. Created by Taylor Sheridan, it's a prequel to Yellowstone, revealing the Dutton family's journey from Tennessee to Montana to establish what would become the Yellowstone Ranch. Led by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill as James and Margaret Dutton, the family faces challenges on their westward trek, encountering allies and adversaries along the way. With a stellar cast including Sam Elliott and Isabel May, the series offers gripping storytelling and stunning visuals, setting the stage for the iconic Yellowstone universe.

1923: In the series 1923, creator Taylor Sheridan made the deliberate choice to shift the narrative to the year 1923, explaining, "I chose that moment in time to peek back in because you’re seeing the children that we’ve met in 1883 attempting to raise another generation of Dutton." The saga concluded its first season on a cliffhanger, focusing on the emergence of the main character played by Brandon Sklenar, and was subsequently renewed for a second season. The premiere of this early 20th-century drama became the most-watched series premiere on cable in 2022. As of now, details regarding a production restart and premiere date for the second season have yet to be announced.

2024 (working title): When the conclusion of Yellowstone was announced, Paramount Network announced plans for two spinoffs. One of them marks the first-ever sequel to Yellowstone with the working title 2024. This present-day story is set to unfold after the events of Yellowstone. It will stream exclusively on Paramount+. The  premiere date has yet to be determined. The series will continue to delve into the intricate dynamics of the Dutton family dynasty, introducing new characters and locations while also featuring some familiar faces – Matthew McConaughey.  

1994: Prepare to journey further into the captivating world of the Yellowstone universe with the announcement of another prequel spinoff, this time set in the year 1944. This series is expected to follow 1883 and 1923, this new installment promises to delve even deeper into the rich tapestry of the Dutton family's history. While details surrounding the series remain shrouded in mystery, creator Taylor Sheridan has hinted at a treasure trove of prequel ideas waiting to be explored. Fans can expect nothing short of cinematic excellence as they embark on yet another thrilling journey through time. Get ready to witness the untold tales of the Dutton legacy like never before.

6666: 6666 is an upcoming contemporary spin-off announced several years ago by Taylor Sheridan, creator of the Yellowstone universe. Set on the historic Four Sixes Ranch in Guthrie, Texas, the series promises to delve into the lives of some of the toughest cowboys in America from a Texan perspective. With Sheridan's roots in Texas and the state's deep connection to the Western genre, the project holds personal significance. While details about the series are scarce, it's expected to offer a modern-day exploration of the ranching lifestyle amidst the backdrop of the Lone Star State's rich and colorful history. A release date has yet to be announced. 

Photo Credit: @yellowstone on Instagram.