While "Yellowstone" has become a cultural juggernaut with a massive following, I personally find it to be one of the most overrated shows on television. Despite its widespread popularity, the series often leaves me feeling bored and unengaged. Ironically, though, I actually enjoyed the prequels, "1883" and "1923." Both were well done and genuinely entertaining, offering rich storytelling that I found much more compelling than the main series.
Fans of "Yellowstone" have recently been hit with a string of disappointments, including the announcement that the show will end with Season 5, the extended wait for those final episodes, and the revelation that Kevin Costner won’t return for the finale. While the main series is drawing to a close, the "Yellowstone" universe continues to expand with new spinoffs. One of the latest is the announcement that Michelle Pfeiffer will star in a spinoff titled "The Madison."
According to Variety, this new show comes from "Yellowstone" creator Taylor Sheridan. Originally referred to as "2024," the spinoff was rumored to feature Matthew McConaughey. The plot reportedly follows a New York City family living in the Madison River valley of Montana.
"The Madison" joins other spinoffs like "1883" and "1923," further expanding the "Yellowstone" universe. However, as much as these spinoffs continue to broaden the story, I can’t help but feel that they somewhat dilute the impact of the original show, adding to my overall ambivalence.
As for the final "Yellowstone" episodes, they’re set to air starting November 10 on the Paramount Network. How the show will handle the absence of Costner’s character, John Dutton, remains to be seen.
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Now, here’s where it gets interesting for us Oregonians: Cole Hauser, who plays the fan-favorite character Rip Wheeler, has ties to Oregon. According to an interview with Men’s Journal, Hauser was born on a ranch in California but spent part of his childhood on a 1,500-acre ranch near Eugene, Oregon. He recalls this period as a time of happiness, surrounded by animals and patrolling the pastures with a BB gun. Though his life took him away from Oregon, this connection adds a personal touch to his portrayal of the rugged ranch foreman in "Yellowstone."
In an interview with "Cigar & Spirits" magazine, Hauser mentioned his background in riding horses, a skill that has certainly come in handy on the show. He shared memories of riding a pony named Cinnamon through the Oregon countryside, reflecting fondly on his early years spent in the Beaver State.
Even though "Yellowstone" may not hold my attention, it's still cool to see Oregon's influence woven into the fabric of such a popular series.
[Source: Oregonlive]
