The second half of Yellowstone season 5 is possibly delayed following the recent behind-the-scenes drama. Season 5 is currently on hiatus after concluding its first part in January 2023, which ended with Beth and John trying to figure out what to do with Jamie. Season 5 part 2 was previously expected to premiere at some point in mid-2023, but a series of recent updates puts to question Yellowstone's fate.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Costner wanted to reduce his time on set in order to work on other television commitments, sparking rumors that Yellowstone will end with season 5. However, there are allegedly plans to continue the franchise through other shows, possibly including Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey as a lead. Sources now tell The Hollywood Reporter that as a result of the behind-the-scenes turmoil, the filming of the remainder of Yellowstone season 5 may be delayed. It is unclear how this would affect part 2's expected return in summer 2023.
What to Expect When Yellowstone Season 5 Returns?
Rumors regarding Costner's Yellowstone exit rose speculations about whether season 5 will be the series' last. With the actor as one of the show's main draws, it is unlikely he will be recast with McConaughey or any other actor for the remainder of the show. If Costner wishes to leave the show to pursue his new American Civil War passion project, Horizon, Sheridan may write John out of Yellowstone by killing him off or end the show with season 5. If the show's creator takes the latter action, the second half of season 5 may incur a significant delay due to rewrites and set production.
Sheridan previously stated that he has the end of Yellowstone planned. It is unknown if he expected the series' conclusion to come this soon. However, with Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Jamie Dutton's (Wes Bentley) feud at a boiling point, Sheridan may have an avenue to remove Costner from the series.
Yellowstone season 5 mid-season finale saw Jamie call a state assembly to request that proceedings be put in place to impeach his father from the Governor's office. Beth declares war against her brother, promising to destroy Jamie personally and professionally. However, Jamie's puppet master, Sarah Atwood (Dawn Olivieri), suggests that he entertains the idea of hiring professional hitmen to kill his sister. Such a violent conflict between Beth and Jamie allows Sheridan to kill off John to conclude Yellowstone with season 5.
Source: THR