Despite confirming previously that he would not be returning for the latter part of Season 5 or beyond, Costner has

hinted at ongoing discussions about how Dutton’s narrative could continue or conclude in some other form.

“That’s been a wonderful part of my life, you know, making ‘Yellowstone.’ And who knows, sometimes some things have a way of circling back,” the actor told Entertainment Tonight.

“I haven’t seen that dust trail coming toward me. But I’ve always been open to what I started. And the five seasons was a lot for us to do. I think that, you know, that story is not finished.”

Kevin Costner And Yellowstone Parting Ways, But The Dutton Family Lives On

Yellowstone was a ratings juggernaut before hitting a contractual snag with Kevin Costner in the middle of season 5. Fans were able to watch the Dutton family drama for the first half of the season, but a release of the second half was delayed. Much to the ongoing chagrin of fans.

There was a significant period of speculation regarding Costner’s exit. This arose due to scheduling conflicts with his own project, Horizon: An American Saga.

The actor’s latest comments imply that while he has stepped away, there might be room for the Yellowstone universe to expand or wrap up Dutton’s arc in ways that could involve or reference his character.

That seems most likely by continuing the story of Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) and John’s daughter Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly).

The second half of Yellowstone season five is set to premiere on November 10th without Kevin Costner. Negotiations for a sixth season are reportedly ongoing and, in fact, are likely to focus on Hauser and Reilly’s characters.

Will Dutton’s Story Be Told Through Spinoffs?

Kevin Costner’s latest comments about the Yellowstone story being “not finished” opens new possibilities.

As Deadline points out, the teaser for the return of season 5 does not label it as the “final chapter”.