How To Watch The 'Yellowstone' TV Shows In Order
After years of dominating television and redefining the modern Western, Yellowstone officially wrapped its run in 2024 with the conclusion of its fifth season. What began as a gripping neo-Western centered on the Dutton family has since become one of television's most expansive franchises, blending family drama with historical storytelling and contemporary crime narratives.
Even though the flagship series has ended, the Yellowstone universe is far from over. In fact, it's growing faster than ever with multiple prequels exploring the Dutton legacy, alongside present-day spin-offs that expand the world beyond the ranch. Those interested in catching up with the franchise can use our guide to find out how to stream the shows on platforms like Paramount+, Peacock, and more.
Yellowstone kicked off Taylor Sheridan's Western franchise in 2018. The series centers on the Dutton family, who struggle to maintain the largest cattle ranch in Montana while dealing with business issues and family drama. The series is a unique blend of modern Western and family drama, boasting gorgeous settings and a comforting sense of escapism.
The performances are also top-notch, including Kevin Costner's fierce, powerhouse depiction of John Dutton. Fans of neo-westerns and comfort television, like Longmire (2012) and Ransom Canyon (2025), will love Yellowstone as it balances western grit with beautiful scenery and relatable drama in the most entertaining way possible.
1883 is the first prequel to Yellowstone. It follows the post-Civil War generation of the Dutton family as they begin the journey that will ultimately see them settle in Montana. Due to its setting in the 1880s, 1883 is more of a proper Western than Yellowstone. It leans into historical accuracy and realism and quite authentically portrays pioneer and wagon train life.
As a result, it's even grittier and darker than Yellowstone, exploring violence and loss with a somber and sometimes bleak tone. If you enjoyed Yellowstone but are seeking something set outside the present, 1883 is an excellent choice with a seriousness and setting that are reminiscent of Deadwood (2004) and The English (2022).
Given its prequel status and early 19th-century setting, viewers seeking to watch the Yellowstone shows in chronological order would start with 1883. However, beginning with Yellowstone is recommended for newcomers to draw you into the universe and give you a better appreciation of the Dutton family legacy and heightened curiosity about where it all started before diving into 1883.
1923 is another Yellowstone prequel, which centers on Cara (Helen Mirren) and Jacob Dutton (Harrison Ford), as they see their family and ranch through the turbulent 1920s, including the Great Depression and prohibition. The series aligns closer with 1883 than Yellowstone, boasting a similar gritty and somber tone as it delves into its historical setting.
However, it sets itself apart with the star power of Ford and Mirren, who elevate the show with their chemistry and emotional performances. The story also delves more deeply into the topics of family and survival. 1923 offers the drama and western vibes of Yellowstone, but also the setting and grit of Boardwalk Empire (2010) and Damnation (2017).
The Madison, which has already been renewed for a second season, is a present-day spin-off created by Sheridan that builds on the spirit of the Yellowstone universe beyond the Duttons. The standalone series follows the Clyburn family, who relocate from New York City to Montana's Madison River valley after a life-altering tragedy, seeking healing and a fresh start.
Led by Michelle Pfeiffer and Kurt Russell, The Madison has a heavy focus on emotional storytelling while maintaining the sweeping landscapes and realism that defines the franchise. Unlike Yellowstone, however, the series deals with more internal family struggles and personal recovery, offering a quieter, more introspective tone.
Marshals marks a major change for the Yellowstone universe, shifting into a more procedural format while keeping its neo-Western roots intact. The story follows Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes), a former U.S. Navy SEAL who ditches his old ranch life to join a special unit of U.S. Marshals tasked with protecting Montana. The show mixes law enforcement story arcs with the rugged, character-driven drama that fans really enjoy.
By focusing on Kayce's next chapter, Marshals directly continues the events of Yellowstone, which makes it one of the most narratively connected spin-offs. Its second season renewal also suggests strong momentum and positions it as a central pillar of the franchise's future. It's ideal for anyone who finds the idea of a Western crime procedural appealing.
Dutton Ranch will be a direct continuation of the main Yellowstone storyline. But this time around, the story will have a greater focus on Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser), as they try, in their own way, to keep the family legacy going after everything that unfolded in Season 5. It's currently set to premiere in May 2026.
As one of the most closely tied sequels, Dutton Ranch will likely appeal most to longtime fans invested in the central characters and ongoing power dynamics. With a full season already planned, it represents the next major chapter in the Dutton family saga, while exploring what the future of the ranch looks like without its former leadership.
6666 remains one of the more mysterious entries in the Yellowstone franchise. Named after the historic 6666 Ranch in Texas (which was briefly featured in the flagship series), the story is expected to explore a different side of ranching culture. While official plot details are still under wraps, early speculation suggested the series might follow Jimmy Hurdstrom (Jefferson White) after his move to Texas.
Given Sheridan's interest in authentic depictions of ranch life, 6666 is widely expected to lean into realism and tradition, possibly offering one of the most grounded portrayals in the franchise. Until more details emerge, its exact place in the timeline, and its connection to the Duttons, remains unclear. Additionally, no casting confirmations or timeline details have been announced at this time.
Another Yellowstone prequel that is currently in development is 1944. The series is expected to continue the storyline from 1923. Set during the mid-20th century, the show is expected to follow the lives of the next generation of the Dutton family as they deal with the challenges of wartime America. Casting info and more specific plot details are yet to be revealed.
