When Taylor Sheridan leaves, what happens to Yellowstone? That’s the question fans are asking after shocking news that the powerhouse creator behind Yellowstone and its spin-offs is leaving Paramount for NBCUniversal. Sheridan’s contract will officially end in 2028, marking a turning point for one of TV’s biggest franchises.
But does this mean Yellowstone will fade away with him? Not necessarily — though the road ahead looks uncertain.
Paramount Still Owns Yellowstone — But Can It Survive Without Sheridan?
Despite Sheridan’s exit, Paramount retains full ownership of the entire Yellowstone universe. That includes hit shows like:
- Yellowstone
- Tulsa King
- Mayor of Kingstown
- Lioness
- Landman
This means the network could continue expanding the franchise without Sheridan’s creative control. However, keeping these massive productions alive through 2029 and beyond might be a tall order. Streaming competition is fierce, budgets are ballooning, and Sheridan’s storytelling magic is hard to replace.
The Spin-Offs Are Moving Forward — Slowly
Even as Sheridan moves on, Paramount has several Yellowstone spin-offs in development:
- Dutton Ranch – The direct sequel to Yellowstone, with Cole Hauser, Kelly Reilly, and Ed Harris attached.
- The Madison – A new drama centered around another Montana family, starring Kurt Russell, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Matthew Fox.
- 1944 – The final prequel in the Dutton family saga.
- Y: Marshals – A modern-day crime series led by Luke Grimes, focusing on law enforcement around the Yellowstone region.
While Sheridan is credited as an executive producer, day-to-day control appears to be shifting to new showrunners like Chad Feehan (Lawman: Bass Reeves) and Spencer Hudnut (SEAL Team). This suggests that Paramount is preparing for a post-Sheridan era — but whether the shows will keep his signature grit and authenticity remains to be seen.
A Rocky Transition for Yellowstone Fans
After Kevin Costner’s controversial departure and delays in Yellowstone’s fifth season, fans have already felt the effects of creative turbulence. Adding Sheridan’s exit to the mix only deepens uncertainty.
Some fans worry that without his distinct voice, future shows could feel more like “add-ons” than true continuations of the Dutton legacy. Others hope that new blood behind the camera might inject fresh life into the universe.
Still, Paramount’s silence on clear release dates hasn’t helped. The Madison was once expected in 2025, but production setbacks make that unlikely. There’s a growing concern that Paramount may shorten upcoming shows into limited series to reduce costs.
What the Future Might Hold
Here’s what could happen next:
- Paramount continues Yellowstone spin-offs with new creative teams.
- NBCUniversal gives Sheridan free rein to launch new hit franchises.
- Fans get a mix of shorter, limited-run Yellowstone shows post-2028.
- The Dutton story may officially conclude — but its world could live on.
In short, Sheridan’s departure doesn’t end Yellowstone, but it does change it forever.
FAQs About Yellowstone’s Future
1. Is Yellowstone ending after Taylor Sheridan leaves?
Not officially. Paramount still owns the rights and can continue producing spin-offs even without Sheridan.
2. Will Kevin Costner return to Yellowstone?
Highly unlikely. Reports suggest Costner has moved on, and the show’s finale will move forward without him.
3. Who will replace Taylor Sheridan as showrunner?
New spin-offs are being led by Chad Feehan and Spencer Hudnut, with Sheridan staying on as an executive producer in name only.
4. When will the Yellowstone sequel Dutton Ranch be released?
There’s no confirmed date yet, but it’s expected sometime between 2026 and 2027, depending on production schedules.
5. Will Sheridan’s NBC deal affect existing shows like Tulsa King?
No — Paramount retains ownership of all existing shows. NBC will only handle Sheridan’s future projects after 2028.
Final Thoughts
The Yellowstone universe may outlive its creator, but it faces a tough climb ahead. Without Taylor Sheridan’s sharp storytelling, Paramount’s western empire risks losing the depth and intensity that made it iconic.
Still, new creative leadership could surprise us — and the Dutton name might continue to ride on, even without its cowboy-in-chief.