The Dutton saga continues — and it’s heading straight into the chaos of World War II. Paramount+ just dropped the official trailer for 1944, the newest Yellowstone prequel, and fans are losing their minds. Created by Taylor Sheridan, the mastermind behind 1883, 1923, and the hit Yellowstone series, this next chapter dives deep into the Duttons’ fight to keep their Montana ranch alive during one of America’s darkest times.
A New Era Begins: What Is 1944 About?
Set against the backdrop of World War II, 1944 explores how the Dutton family faced new threats — not just from enemies abroad, but from the home front. As soldiers march off to war, the Dutton ranch becomes a battleground of its own, with rival landowners, family divisions, and survival at stake.
The trailer opens with breathtaking shots of Montana’s snowy plains, thunder rolling over cattle herds, and families gathered around radios awaiting news from overseas. It’s pure Yellowstone — raw, emotional, and cinematic.
Expect:
- Gritty storytelling and historical realism
- Emotional family conflicts and moral gray zones
- Classic Western action — horseback chases, ranch raids, and frontier justice
Trailer Highlights: Major Twists and Teases
The 1944 Episode 1 trailer is packed with tension and revelations that could rewrite the Dutton legacy. Here’s what stands out:
1. War Hits Home
A Dutton brother returns from battle carrying invisible scars — his clash with family over selling land to fund the war effort sets off major conflict.
2. Ranch Rivalries Explode
Old feuds from 1923 resurface as outsiders try to seize Yellowstone land for wartime factories. Expect midnight raids, fiery standoffs, and Sheridan-level suspense.
3. The Legacy Darkens
Flash-forwards connect the 1940s to future generations — showing how wartime choices shaped John Dutton’s ruthless code in Yellowstone.
Meet the Star-Studded Cast
| Actor | Role Description | Why It Fits the Yellowstone World |
|---|---|---|
| Josh Lucas | War veteran and Dutton patriarch | Brings intensity and depth reminiscent of young John Dutton |
| Sam Worthington | Loyal foreman with a haunted past | Perfect mix of quiet strength and raw power |
| Elizabeth Olsen | Fierce matriarch fighting for her family | Emotional powerhouse with heart and grit |
| David Oyelowo | Rival landowner with conflicting morals | Adds complexity and gravitas to Sheridan’s storytelling |
Rumors hint at cameo appearances from 1923 stars, possibly connecting timelines through narration or memory sequences.
When and Where to Watch 1944
- Release Date: Early 2026
- Platform: Paramount+ (with select airings on Paramount Network)
- Production: Currently in post-production under Taylor Sheridan’s direction
Fans can expect 1944 to premiere shortly after Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 concludes, perfectly bridging the generational gap between 1923 and the modern-day Duttons.
Why 1944 Is the Boldest Yellowstone Story Yet
1944 isn’t just another prequel — it’s a powerful mix of war, survival, and legacy. Sheridan is turning up the intensity, showing how the Duttons were shaped by sacrifice, loyalty, and loss during America’s most turbulent decade.
This series promises to deliver:
Heart-pounding Western drama
Historical realism and emotional storytelling
Deep connections to the Yellowstone family tree
In short, 1944 is more than a prequel — it’s the emotional backbone of the entire Dutton dynasty.
FAQs About Yellowstone: 1944 (2026)
1. Who created 1944?
1944 is created by Taylor Sheridan, the writer and producer behind Yellowstone, 1883, and 1923.
2. When will 1944 be released?
The series is expected to premiere in early 2026 on Paramount+.
3. Is Kevin Costner in 1944?
No, 1944 takes place generations before John Dutton’s time, but it explores his family’s origins.
4. Where does 1944 fit in the Yellowstone timeline?
It bridges the gap between 1923 and modern-day Yellowstone, set during World War II.
5. Will it connect to other Yellowstone spin-offs?
Yes, the show ties directly into themes and legacies from 1883 and 1923, expanding the Sheridan universe.
Final Take: The Dutton Legacy Rides Again
If the 1944 trailer proves anything, it’s that Taylor Sheridan still knows how to keep fans on the edge of their saddles. With a powerhouse cast, stunning visuals, and gripping storytelling, this series could become the most emotional Yellowstone chapter yet.