The Dutton saga continues to unfold and go beyond the borders of Montana. The first trailer for Yellowstone’s new prequel series, 1944, has been released, giving viewers their very first look at a series blending a Western way of life with the harshness of World War II.
What is 1944 all about?
After the events of 1883 and 1923, this prequel takes us into the middle of World War II. Unfolding overseas, the war, however, has its repercussions back home. With many of the local men being drafted to fight, the Duttons must secure their ranch. The trailer depicts how the family and the community deal with shortages, threats, and massive changes.
Major themes we can expect to see are:
- Rationing and supply shortages making the ranches work much harder than normal.
- People trying to take advantage of families while those with means of protection are away.
- The women and younger members of the family stepping in and taking leadership.
- Difficult choices of serving the country or protecting the home and family.
New Duttons and family history
The trailer introduces us to John Dutton II, the grandfather of Kevin Costner’s John Dutton from Yellowstone. It appears the show would further explain how Dutton family values came to be and the sacrifices they made along the way. The new characters of 1944 will serve to round out the family’s story as well as connect the past prequels to the present series.
A Big Western Wartime
The world looked big and cinematic; the trailer has! Wide Montana landscapes, horses running through big fields, tense standoffs down dusty roads, quiet, and emotional moments showing the hardship of living in wartime. It has the set feel of a big war movie with a raw Western drama twist.
Where 1944 lands on the timeline
1883: The Duttons’ early journey west and how they claimed their land.
1923: Hard years: economic troubles, droughts, and changing.
1944: World War II’s impact on the ranch and life at home.
Current: Land fights, politics, and family power struggles.
Fast FAQs
1. Is the Yellowstone prequel 1944 officially confirmed?
Yes. Paramount has confirmed 1944 as the next major chapter in the franchise.
2. When will 1944 be released?
While no exact premiere date has been announced, the series is expected to debut on Paramount+ in late 2025 or sometime in 2026.
3. Who stars in 1944?
The full cast list has not been revealed yet, but the series is expected to introduce John Dutton II and other key figures connected to 1923.
4. Will characters from 1923 appear?
It’s possible—though 21 years have passed in the timeline. Fans speculate that an older Spencer Dutton or surviving members of the family may return.
5. Is 1944 connected directly to Yellowstone?
Yes. The prequel continues building the Dutton family history leading directly into the events of the modern series.
Final thought
The 1944 trailer marks Taylor Sheridan’s expansion of the Yellowstone world with more history, emotion, and action. While tracing the Duttons’ struggle during World War II, the series will further enrich the family saga and transform fans’ view of the entire Yellowstone timeline.
