Make way for another Yellowstone spinoff! The wildly popular series about the fictional, fighting Dutton dynasty that ran from 2018 to 2024 has spawned yet another drama with familiar characters. This time, it's Dutton Ranch. It begins airing on Paramount+ on Friday, May 15. The focus is on Rip Wheeler, played by Cole Hauser, and his combustible and sometimes combative spouse, Beth Dutton. She is brought to life by actress Kelly Reilly. Cole Hauser spoke to Fox News Digital about Rip Wheeler's appeal to a mass audience.
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Hauser Identified the Core Reason for Rip Wheeler's Popularity
Rip Wheeler embodies traditional, admirable values. Cole Hauser said of the character, "But, you know, I think what Taylor [Sheridan] and I originally wanted to create is kind of a throwback to the old-school American man. And I think Rip is that. He's extremely loyal. He's honest. He has great honor. He loves, he fights. I mean, he is the epitome of a Montana man."
He Has Roots in Montana Dating Back Generations
The actor explained that he divides his time between two places - Florida and Montana. "Well, Florida is, I feel like I'm on vacation when I go home, which is what we wanted to create, my wife and I. Montana, my family has been there since 1886. So the Hauser legacy there is huge."
furthermore, Hauser went on, "I mean, Samuel T. Hauser was the seventh governor of Montana, helped start that state. So going back there felt like a homecoming for me."
There Is Widespread Geographical Appeal for These TV Dramas
Hauser made an excellent point. The reach of series like Yellowstone and its spinoffs goes way beyond the Montana locals who like watching their home portrayed. There is a universality that has been and is still being tapped into.
He observed, "You know, it's interesting, you know, 10 years ago when we started this, it was really kind of a grassroots show in Montana and then, you know, we grew out to the edges, Los Angeles, now New York, and now the world. I mean, we were just in Europe and it's amazing to watch, you know, the Germans dress up as cowboys, the English. I've been to Australia and New Zealand. I mean just how many people have been touched by it."
It's truly blossomed into a global phenomenon. It's thanks to great actors, scripts, and the endless creative wizardry of Taylor Sheridan.
