Details about 1944 remain under wraps, but the setting—during the Second World War—suggests significant impact on the Yellowstone Ranch and its heirs. The 1923 finale confirmed that Spencer Dutton, played by Brandon Sklenar, survives long after the events of the series and raises his son, John Dutton II.

By the time 1944 is set, John II would be 21 years old, positioning him as a likely central figure. While it is not confirmed whether Sklenar will reprise his role, he has expressed interest. “Listen, I know that ‘1944’ is a thing that they are planning on doing here, and maybe we see Spencer in 1944,” Sklenar told Variety. “That is something I would be interested in doing.”

The continuation of prequels comes as no surprise given the critical and commercial success of both 1883 and 1923. The first season of 1923 earned two Golden Globe nominations, including Best Drama Series, while 1883 secured three Emmy nods.

Series creator Taylor Sheridan remains at the centre of the expanding Yellowstone universe under his overall deal with Paramount. Though the main Yellowstone series ended in December 2024 after five seasons, multiple spin-offs are in motion. These include The Madison starring Michelle Pfeiffer, a Beth and Rip-focused series, and early discussions for a Kayce Dutton spinoff at CBS.

Sheridan also oversees multiple ongoing series on Paramount+, including Tulsa King, Landman, Mayor of Kingstown, and Lioness.

1944 will continue to build the Dutton legacy, exploring how history and family intersect on the Yellowstone Ranch.

While details surrounding 1944 are still being kept tightly under wraps, the mere mention of its title has already sparked widespread speculation and anticipation. Set during the harrowing years of World War II, this upcoming installment promises to delve deep into a time of global upheaval—and its ripple effects are certain to be felt on the Yellowstone Ranch and within the Dutton bloodline.

Fans of the Yellowstone prequel universe will recall that the 1923 finale confirmed Spencer Dutton (played by Brandon Sklenar) survives the events of that series and goes on to raise a son: John Dutton II. With 1944 set approximately two decades later, John II would be around 21 years old—prime age to step into a central, possibly heroic, role in the story. Could this be the chapter where we see the emergence of the next true Dutton patriarch?

So far, it hasn’t been confirmed whether Sklenar will reprise his role as Spencer Dutton. However, the actor himself has hinted at the possibility, igniting even more excitement among fans. “Listen, I know that 1944 is a thing that they are planning on doing here, and maybe we see Spencer in 1944,” Sklenar told Variety. “That is something I would be interested in doing.” His potential return would certainly offer continuity and emotional resonance for longtime viewers.

The success of previous prequels 1883 and 1923 sets high expectations for 1944. 1883 received three Emmy nominations, while 1923 earned two Golden Globe nominations, including one for Best Drama Series—cementing the franchise’s place as a critical and commercial juggernaut.

At the heart of this ever-growing universe is series creator Taylor Sheridan, whose partnership with Paramount has yielded a sprawling saga that now stretches across generations. Though the flagship Yellowstone series officially concluded in December 2024 after five riveting seasons, its legacy continues to grow with numerous spin-offs in the works.

Among these is The Madison, starring the iconic Michelle Pfeiffer, as well as a much-anticipated series centered around fan favorites Beth and Rip. There’s also buzz about a Kayce Dutton spin-off being developed at CBS, though details remain in early stages. Sheridan, whose storytelling prowess has become synonymous with gritty, character-driven drama, continues to juggle multiple projects, including Tulsa King, Landman, Mayor of Kingstown, and Lioness—all thriving on Paramount+.

But it’s 1944 that has fans holding their breath. How will the war impact the Yellowstone Ranch? Will it fracture the Dutton family or forge them into something stronger? Will new alliances form—or old rivalries ignite? These questions hang in the air like smoke over the Montana plains, pulling viewers deeper into the mythology Sheridan has so meticulously built.

Ultimately, 1944 isn’t just about war or land. It’s about legacy. It’s about what it means to carry a name like Dutton through the darkest chapters of history—and come out the other side. As the next generation steps into the spotlight, one thing is clear: the past is never truly behind us on the Yellowstone Ranch. It lives on, stitched into the very soil beneath their boots.

Stay tuned—because the Dutton story is far from over. In fact, it might just be getting started.