Yellowstone Returns to Paramount Network This Weekend — But That’s Not the Only Surprise Fans Can Expect

After a prolonged hiatus, the Dutton family’s saga is set to continue this weekend with the premiere of Yellowstone Season 5, Part 2. The highly anticipated return will air on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET on Paramount Network, with a subsequent broadcast on CBS at 10 p.m. ET .

A Shocking Turn of Events

The midseason premiere, titled “Desire Is All You Need,” opens with a devastating event that shakes the state of Montana to its core . Governor John Dutton, portrayed by Kevin Costner, is found dead, seemingly by suicide. However, the episode hints that his death may have been staged to look like a suicide, orchestrated by a hitman sent by one of his enemies. This shocking turn of events sets the stage for a power struggle among the Dutton family and their allies

In the wake of John Dutton’s death, his son Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) is thrust into the role of ranch leader. However, his leadership is challenged by his sister Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and brother Jamie Dutton (Wes Bentley), leading to escalating tensions and power plays within the family. Meanwhile, Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) faces his own challenges as he navigates the complexities of loyalty and duty.

The Absence of a Patriarch

Kevin Costner’s departure from the series has left a significant void. The actor announced in June 2024 that he would not return for the second half of Season 5, citing his commitment to his four-part Western film franchise “Horizon” and scheduling conflicts as reasons . Despite his absence, Costner’s character continues to influence the storyline, with his death serving as a catalyst for the ensuing drama

A Star-Studded Cast Returns

Despite Costner’s departure, the series boasts a talented ensemble cast. Returning cast members include Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton, Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton, Wes Bentley as Jamie Dutton, Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler, Kelsey Asbille as Monica Dutton, and Gil Birmingham as Chief Thomas Rainwater . Additionally, new characters are introduced, including Sarah Atwood (Dawn Olivieri), who becomes romantically and professionally involved with Jamie, further complicating family dynamics.

A Glimpse into the Future

While Yellowstone is concluding its run, the Dutton family’s legacy continues to expand. A sequel series, tentatively titled The Madison, is in development, starring Michelle Pfeiffer as Stacy Clyburn, a wealthy matriarch who relocates her family to Montana following a personal tragedy . Additionally, a procedural spinoff titled Y: Marshals is set to premiere on CBS in 2026, focusing on Kayce Dutton’s transition into a new role

Where to Watch

The final episodes of Yellowstone Season 5 will air on Paramount Network and CBS. For those who missed the live broadcasts, the episodes are available for purchase on Amazon Prime Video . However, the episodes are not available for streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S., though they can be streamed on the platform in Canada .

Final Thoughts

The return of Yellowstone promises to deliver the high-stakes drama and compelling storytelling that fans have come to expect. With the Dutton family facing unprecedented challenges and betrayals, the final episodes are set to provide a satisfying conclusion to the saga. As the series draws to a close, the legacy of the Duttons will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the upcoming spinoffs and the enduring impact of the show on the television landscape.