The Yellowstone universe is expanding again, and this time, the story travels into one of America’s most turbulent eras. Paramount has officially released the first trailer for Yellowstone: 1944, the next prequel series set to arrive in 2026. Following the success of 1883 and 1923, this new chapter explores how World War II reshaped the Duttons, their land, and their future.
With a gripping tone and a major cast update, 1944 is already shaping up to be one of the franchise’s most emotional entries.
A First Look at the 1944 Trailer
A Nation at War
The trailer sets the stage immediately: the world is deep in World War II.
Montana feels the impact as young men—including several Dutton family members—are called away to serve. The war casts a long shadow across the Yellowstone Ranch, highlighting themes of duty, sacrifice, and the uncertainty of survival.
Life on the Home Front
While the men head overseas, those left behind face battles of their own.
The trailer teases:
- Rationing and food shortages
- Financial pressure on the ranch
- Women stepping into leadership roles
- Community-wide fear and change
This time, the Dutton story is not just about land — it’s about holding the family together when the world is falling apart.
Rise of the Next Dutton Generation
A new generation steps forward to protect the ranch. They must honor the past while adapting to a rapidly changing America. The trailer shows these young Duttons dealing with:
- Shifting power
- New technology
- The emotional toll of wartime loss
Epic Scale, Grit, and Cinematic Style
Visually, Yellowstone: 1944 blends sweeping wartime imagery with the rugged beauty of Montana. Expect:
- Harsh winters
- Explosive action sequences
- Emotional farewells
- Wide shots of a country at war
It feels like a bridge between the raw frontier realism of 1883 and the political drama of 1923.
New Cast Updates for Yellowstone: 1944 (2026)
The cast lineup brings both familiar faces and exciting new stars:
Josh Lucas
Reprising his role as young John Dutton Sr., offering continuity between the earlier prequels and the present-day series.
Sam Worthington
Playing a decorated World War II veteran returning home to Montana. His character is torn between military loyalty and family duty.
Elizabeth Olsen
Joining as Margaret Dutton’s granddaughter — a fierce, determined woman running the ranch during wartime challenges.
David Oyelowo
Portrays a charismatic soldier whose connection with the Duttons will have long-term consequences for the family.
Rumor: Isabel May to Return as Narrator
There is strong speculation that Isabel May (Elsa Dutton) will once again narrate the series, continuing her iconic role as the spiritual voice of the Dutton legacy.
What Makes 1944 Stand Out?
Yellowstone: 1944 offers a fresh perspective compared to previous installments:
- 1883 focused on survival and frontier hardship.
- 1923 highlighted political power struggles and economic turmoil.
- 1944 centers on global war, generational change, and the fragility of family lines during times of crisis.
The war doesn’t just threaten the Yellowstone — it threatens the Dutton name itself.
Final Word
The trailer for Yellowstone: 1944 teases an intense, emotional story set during one of history’s most defining periods. With a powerful cast, stunning cinematography, and a deeper exploration of the Dutton legacy, the 2026 prequel is already being hailed as a must-watch chapter in the expanding Yellowstone universe.
Fans can expect a dramatic blend of ranch life, war-time challenges, and unforgettable character arcs.
FAQs — Yellowstone: 1944 (2026)
1. What is Yellowstone: 1944 about?
It follows the Dutton family during World War II, exploring how global conflict reshapes their land, family structure, and future.
2. How does it connect to 1883 and 1923?
1944 continues the generational story, acting as the next major bridge toward the modern Yellowstone timeline.
3. Who is in the cast?
Josh Lucas, Sam Worthington, Elizabeth Olsen, and David Oyelowo lead the new cast, with Isabel May rumored to narrate.
4. When will 1944 premiere?
The series is scheduled for 2026, with an official release date coming later.
5. Is the show only about the war?
No — while World War II is the backdrop, most of the story unfolds on the ranch, blending family drama with wartime impact.