The Dutton family might find themselves taking a backseat in the series that bears their name. Filming for Dutton Ranch season 2 is slated to begin soon, with an eye towards a Paramount+ release next year. This Yellowstone spin-off continues the saga of Rip (Cole Hauser) and Beth (Kelly Reilly), undeniably the two most popular characters from the acclaimed western franchise.

A Secondary Character, Yet Central to the Plot

The first season's production was far from smooth. Reports emerged of a heated exchange between Cole Hauser, who plays Rip, and franchise creator Taylor Sheridan. Additionally, showrunner Chad Feehan was reportedly dismissed from his duties. Adding to the behind-the-scenes drama, veteran actor Ed Harris revealed he considered leaving production due to dissatisfaction with his character's initial writing.

In the series, Ed Harris portrays Everett McKinney, a kind-hearted veterinarian who forms friendships with both Beth and Rip. McKinney is also closely connected to Beulah Jackson (Annette Bening), the proprietor of the 10 Petal Ranch, whose perspective on the Duttons' arrival in Texas remains to be fully explored.

Is the End of the Dutton Dominance Near?

Ed Harris's return for season 2 was secured with a promise of a more substantial role for his character. However, this increased prominence might not sit well with everyone. In an interview with ScreenRant, Kelly Reilly, who plays Beth, candidly shared that season 2 would be "less a series about Beth and Rip, and more a series with Ed Harris."

This suggests that Everett McKinney's character is set to occupy a central position in the show's narrative, potentially relegating the two main characters to a secondary role. This shift could prove divisive among fans, unless, of course, Reilly's statement is an exaggeration.

The first season of Dutton Ranch is currently available exclusively on Paramount+.