Another Yellowstone prequel is on the horizon—and this time, it’s taking us straight into the cultural storm of the late 1960s. With 1944 expected in late 2025, Yellowstone: 1969 is shaping up as the next major chapter in the Dutton family saga, exploring themes of legacy, identity, and survival at a time when America itself was transforming.
🧬 What Is 1969 About?
The seeds for 1969 were quietly planted in 1923 Season 2, Episode 7. We got a rare glimpse into the future, revealing that Spencer Dutton lived a long life, eventually passing away in 1969 on the grave of his first love, Alexandra. This detail—emotional and oddly specific—feels like classic Taylor Sheridan foreshadowing. The Yellowstone universe never throws out dates or character arcs casually.
The Setup: Spencer, still grieving Alexandra, has spent decades raising the next generation. With Jack Dutton presumed dead, and Elizabeth pregnant but removed from the ranch, we’re led to believe that Spencer acts as a surrogate patriarch—essentially raising a young John Dutton Sr., the future father of Kevin Costner’s character.
👦 Young John Dutton’s Origin Story
In 1969, the future Dutton patriarch we know from Yellowstone is just 10 years old. That means:
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We’ll get a deep dive into his formative years on the ranch.
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We’ll likely see Spencer as his primary father figure, shaping his values, toughness, and bond with the land.
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There’s a strong chance John’s biological father is serving in Vietnam, reflecting the era’s broader tensions and forcing Spencer into an even deeper parenting role.
Expect rodeos, cowboy trials, and the emotional tug-of-war between old-school grit and modern pressures.
🌎 What Was Happening in 1969?
This era brings everything Sheridan loves: personal conflict amid national upheaval. In the background:
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The Vietnam War is at its peak.
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Civil rights and counterculture movements are reshaping the country.
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Rodeo culture and Western identity are being tested by the modern world.
Even remote Montana isn’t immune. Don’t be surprised if the Duttons are forced to confront changing gender roles, returning war vets, or social pressures at odds with their ranching lifestyle.
🎭 Casting: Who Will Play Older Spencer Dutton?
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Kurt Russell is one of the top names in the rumor mill. His rugged, weathered presence would be a perfect fit for an older, emotionally complex Spencer. His deep Western roots (see Tombstone) only make the idea more appealing.
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Brandon Sklenar, who currently plays Spencer in 1923, has expressed strong interest in aging up for the role. With the right makeup and FX, this could allow for a rare sense of continuity in the Yellowstone world—something the fans would likely embrace.
Expect Sheridan to aim for another A-lister if Sklenar doesn’t return—he’s proven he’s not shy about big casting swings (Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren, Matthew McConaughey).
📅 Release Date: When Is 1969 Coming Out?
With Yellowstone: 1944 expected in late 2025, 1969 is projected to arrive in 2026. Whether that’s early or late in the year remains unconfirmed, but don’t expect it before the 1944 story wraps.
🧩 How 1969 Fits Into the Yellowstone Timeline
Let’s break it down:
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1883 – Foundation of the Dutton legacy.
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1923 – Duttons face early 20th-century struggles, introducing Spencer.
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1944 – Likely continues Spencer’s journey post-war and transitions to the next gen.
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1969 – Ends Spencer’s arc while showing John Dutton Sr.’s boyhood.
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Yellowstone (Modern) – Culmination of generations of sacrifice, land disputes, and legacy.
Sheridan is clearly playing the long game, building a dynasty piece by piece. 1969 could be the emotional bridge between the old and new worlds.
