Cole Hauser, the rugged heart of Yellowstone as Rip Wheeler, isn’t hanging up his cowboy hat anytime soon. With Yellowstone’s final episodes wrapped in May 2024, fans mourned the potential end of Rip’s journey, especially as hopes for a Beth and Rip spin-off flickered. But Hauser’s not done blazing trails. He’s diving headfirst into a new Western-inspired project that’s as gritty and authentic as the Dutton ranch, proving he’s more than just Rip—he’s a storyteller shaping the modern cowboy narrative. Here’s why his latest move is sparking excitement and what it means for his future.
Fresh off Yellowstone’s finale, Hauser saddled up for a cinematic ad campaign with the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) League, unveiled at the 2024 PBR World Finals in Fort Worth, Texas. This wasn’t just a commercial—it was a four-minute love letter to Americana, echoing Yellowstone’s themes of courage and grit. “We do things others won’t,” the ad declares, capturing the spirit of PBR athletes and Hauser’s own passion. He spent four months crafting this project, which drew a massive live audience, showcasing his skills as a director, producer, and star. “I’m a big fan of seeing the sport grow to true mainstream,” Hauser told Fox News Digital, praising the “talent and courage” of bull riders. This move proves he’s not just riding Rip’s coattails—he’s forging his own path in Western culture.
Despite rumors swirling around a Beth and Rip spin-off, Hauser’s recent comments have stirred confusion. At the PBR Finals, he debunked the rumored title Dutton Ranch, saying, “Well, first of all, it’s not Dutton Ranch. That’s not the name of it.” Yet, he reassured fans that he and Kelly Reilly are “working our ass off to create something special,” hinting at a continuation of their iconic love story set to premiere in November 2025. The spin-off, picking up after Yellowstone’s December 2024 finale, follows Beth, Rip, and adopted son Carter settling near Dillon, Montana. While Paramount hasn’t locked in details, Hauser’s emotional investment is clear. “Not having the cast around is hard,” he admitted, singling out his bond with Forrie J. Smith (Lloyd). Fans on X are buzzing, with
@1BethDutton
asking, “Why wouldn’t it be called Wheeler Ranch?” Are you hopeful for this spin-off, or do you think it’s stalled?
Hauser’s connection to Rip runs deep. He told Country Living that even with minimal scenes in the Yellowstone pilot, he saw Rip’s potential and collaborated with Taylor Sheridan to shape him into a fan favorite. “This guy only has a couple of scenes, but I love the character,” he recalled. That vision paid off, with Rip’s loyalty and grit resonating with millions. Off-screen, Hauser’s cowboy training—horseback riding and roping—has taken a toll as he ages. “You’re sore for weeks,” he admitted, but his passion for the lifestyle endures. His real-life ranch experience, including a former California horse ranch sold for $4.375 million in 2022, mirrors Rip’s world.
Beyond the spin-off, Hauser’s ambitions are soaring. He’s developing his own TV series, where he’ll act, direct, and executive produce—a deeply personal project he’s kept under wraps. This venture, alongside his PBR work, shows a commitment to storytelling that champions underrepresented voices in Western spaces, like women and minorities, reflected in the inclusive energy of his PBR ad. Fans are split: some, like
@WhiskeyRiff
, celebrate his and Reilly’s confirmed spin-off roles, while others worry Sheridan’s focus on projects like The Madison might sideline it. What do you think—can Hauser’s new show rival Yellowstone’s legacy?
From directing PBR tributes to teasing a mysterious new series, Hauser’s proving he’s a force in and out of the saddle. As he balances Rip’s shadow with fresh ventures, his love for cowboy culture shines. Stay tuned for updates, and tell us: Are you excited for Hauser’s non-Yellowstone projects? Like, follow, and check the video on your screen for more Western buzz!
