Yellowstone’s been one crazy ride of family drama, land feuds, and Kevin Costner’s iconic cowboy

charisma. But as the dust settles on the Dutton Ranch, Kayce Dutton’s finally stepping out of the shadows.

Now, with Costner’s exit leaving a Yellowstone-sized hole, Luke Grimes is set to carry the torch.

Kayce’s journey from misunderstood outsider to the heart of the Dutton empire feels like a long-overdue moment of glory. As fans brace for the next chapter, it’s clear—Yellowstone’s doubling down on Kayce, and Grimes looks ready to own it, boots, hat, and all.

Kayce Dutton Steps Into John’s Boots: Yellowstone Season 5 Seals His Fate as the Family’s Protector

In Yellowstone Season 5, Episode 10—The Apocalypse of Change—that aired on Nov. 17, Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) finally got the spotlight he deserves. With John Dutton gone (suicide), Kayce is stepping into some big boots—and he’s not backing down. It took a while, yes—but the series finally reminded everyone that Kayce is a force to be reckoned with.

Now, with the promise of a showdown brewing, viewers are fired up to see him confront Jamie (Wes Bentley). During the episode, Jamie toasted John’s death, plotted to hand the ranch to Market Equities, and got cozy with Sarah on a desk. But while Jamie basked in his power trip, Beth and Kayce quietly set the stage to strip him of his crown—and maybe his head.

The episode packed flashbacks too, showing John’s final days. Over in Texas, Rip stumbled onto a snake den, and Beth showed up with a surprise AirTag in his wallet. Her reason? To track him down and deal with any cowgirl who catches his eye. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Rip confessed to Lloyd he’s unsure if Kayce will take the reins. But amid all this chaos, Kayce stood tall, helping Tate process his grandfather’s death. He said to his son,

You can remember the way he lived or you can remember the way he died. Your heart can’t do both.

Back at Jamie’s, he was making governor dreams with Market Equities while Beth delivered some vicious threats. But Kayce? He was calling in favors, setting up a move that could take Jamie out for good. As the pieces fall into place, it’s clear Kayce is ready to lead. The Dutton legacy’s on the line, and Luke Grimes is about to make it his.

Kayce Steps Up: Fans Crown Him the New Backbone of Yellowstone

In Yellowstone’s latest episode, Kayce Dutton finally got the credit he deserved. Fans lit up social media, praising Luke Grimes for stepping up as the show’s backbone, filling Kevin Costner’s void, holding the show together with a quiet intensity that fans love. Others cheered as the series reminded everyone that Kayce is someone not to be messed with.

With tensions brewing, viewers are hyped to see Kayce face off against Jamie. After years of buildup, Kayce’s long-overdue moment has fans ready for what’s next. Looks like the ranch has a new king in waiting!