The Yellowstone legacy continues, but this time without the man who started it all. CBS has officially released a sneak peek at Y: Marshals — the new spin-off starring Luke Grimes — offering fans their first look at Kayce Dutton’s life after the fall of the Yellowstone Ranch.

A New Beginning for Kayce Dutton

In the preview, shared via Entertainment Tonight, Grimes’ Kayce Dutton trades his cowboy hat for a Marshal’s badge, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Taylor Sheridan’s Western universe. Set after the events of Yellowstone’s explosive finale, Y: Marshals follows Kayce as he leaves behind his role as Montana’s Livestock Commissioner to join an elite team of U.S. Marshals.

The official synopsis teases that Kayce will “combine his Navy SEAL training and his deep connection to the land to bring justice to the untamed corners of the West.” This new identity allows him to confront both lawlessness and the ghosts of his past, while navigating moral gray areas that mirror the conflicts that defined his family’s legacy.

Sheridan Steps Back as Grimes Steps Forward

While Y: Marshals is firmly rooted in Sheridan’s universe, the famed creator is not directly involved this time. Instead, the project is helmed by SEAL Team showrunner Spencer Hudnut, whose experience promises a mix of authentic tactical action and emotional storytelling.

This creative shift marks a significant change for the franchise, giving Grimes more space to shape Kayce’s evolution without the weight of the Dutton family drama. In the sneak peek, Grimes’ portrayal feels quieter, more reflective — a man still scarred by the past but determined to move forward.

Behind the Scenes: Fallout and Fractures

Fans of Yellowstone will remember that the show’s abrupt ending followed months of behind-the-scenes turmoil between Kevin Costner and Taylor Sheridan. Rumors swirled over creative differences, scheduling conflicts, and Costner’s growing focus on his self-funded Horizon film series.

A recent report from The Hollywood Reporter confirmed tensions between Costner and co-star Wes Bentley, who plays Jamie Dutton. Representatives for Bentley described the altercation as a “work-related argument during an emotional and physically tough scene,” which was ultimately resolved. Costner’s camp declined to comment.

These clashes contributed to the show’s unraveling just as it reached its peak popularity, leaving fans stunned and networks scrambling to continue the story through spin-offs like Y: Marshals and The Dutton Ranch.

A Legacy Reimagined

For Grimes, Y: Marshals represents both a fresh start for his character and a rebirth for the franchise. Without the shadow of John Dutton looming, Kayce’s arc now centers on redemption, duty, and the search for peace in a world that refuses to forgive.

Fans can expect high-stakes chases, emotional reckonings, and a more intimate exploration of Kayce’s inner struggle — all set against the sweeping Montana landscape that defines the Yellowstone world.

The Road Ahead

Y: Marshals is expected to premiere in spring 2026 on CBS, with production currently underway. Though Taylor Sheridan may have stepped back, his storytelling spirit clearly endures — and Luke Grimes is ready to carry the torch.

For viewers still mourning Yellowstone’s end, this isn’t goodbye. It’s a new beginning.