The Yellowstone universe is expanding once again, and fans are buzzing with excitement over the upcoming prequel series, **Yellowstone 1944**. This new chapter promises to continue the Dutton family legacy, focusing on Spencer Dutton’s journey as a single father during one of the most turbulent periods in American history—World War II.

**A Week of Big Reveals in the Yellowstone Universe**

It’s been a busy week for Yellowstone news. First, fans got their first glimpse of the Beth and Rip spin-off, *The Dutton Ranch*. Then, the highly anticipated sequel centered on Casey Dutton dropped the “Y” from its title and will now be called simply *Marshalls*. Finally, the official replacement for the original Yellowstone series, *The Madison*, was announced. While all these projects are exciting, the most crucial development is the confirmation that *Yellowstone 1944* is officially moving forward.

Rumors intensified when series creator Taylor Sheridan was spotted at a Montana steakhouse, just before new spin-off trailers premiered during the Golden Globes. The timing suggested Sheridan was in Montana to begin preparations for *1944*, with speculation that filming will begin in early 2026.

**Production and Release Timeline**

Paramount officially announced *Yellowstone 1944* back in 2023, alongside other new projects in the Yellowstone universe. While some spin-offs, like *Marshalls*, have moved quickly (its first season is already set to premiere on March 1st), *1944* has remained relatively quiet. But silence is not cancellation.

*1944* is still listed as an upcoming prequel, and The Hollywood Reporter included it in their October 2025 list of future projects, even after Sheridan signed a blockbuster deal with NBC Universal. Fortunately, Paramount still owns the Yellowstone IP, and Sheridan’s deal runs through 2028, creating a window for *1944* to be produced and released.

Given the immense popularity and profitability of the Yellowstone franchise, shelving *1944* is highly unlikely, despite the high production costs. Like its predecessors (*1883* and *1923*), each episode is expected to have a movie-sized budget.

**Story and Setting**

Set during World War II, *Yellowstone 1944* will pick up where *1923* left off. Spencer Dutton, played by Brandon Sklenar, survived his harrowing journey and was shown in *1923* as living until 1969. In *1944*, Spencer will be running the ranch as a single father, following the loss of Alexandra, who died after giving birth to their son, John Dutton II—the father of Kevin Costner’s John Dutton III.

The series will focus on John Dutton II’s coming of age, exploring the generational dynamics that forged the Dutton family. Expect powerful father-son moments and the challenges of raising two sons, as Spencer reportedly had another child with a different lover.

The backdrop of World War II will be ever-present: men leaving for war, returning changed, and the moral and emotional toll of global conflict. The ranch will face resource shortages and immense pressure, reflecting the historical reality of the time.

**Cast and Expectations**

Brandon Sklenar has expressed enthusiasm for returning as Spencer Dutton, joking about the physical transformation required for the role and sharing how deeply the character has affected him. With Spencer as a single dad and John Dutton II growing up in the shadow of war, *1944* is positioned at a critical juncture in the Dutton bloodline.

**Release Date and Platform**

*Yellowstone 1944* is expected to air on Paramount Plus, joining *1883*, *1923*, and the original *Yellowstone* series. Filming is rumored to start in early 2026, with a projected premiere around November 2026.

**Conclusion**

With a gripping historical setting, beloved characters, and the promise of exploring the roots of the Dutton family, *Yellowstone 1944* is shaping up to be the most important spin-off in the franchise. Stay tuned for more updates, trailers, and analysis as production moves forward and the legacy of Yellowstone continues to unfold.