10 1923 Characters Can Appear In Taylor Sheridan's Next Yellowstone Prequel

## 10 Characters From 1923 That Could Ride Again in Taylor Sheridan's Next Yellowstone Prequel

Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone universe has taken the world by storm, meticulously crafting a sprawling saga of the Dutton family across generations. Following the gripping stories of "1883" and "1923," fans are eagerly anticipating the next prequel, speculated to potentially explore the Duttons during the Great Depression and World War II. This opens up exciting possibilities for characters from "1923" to reappear, carrying their stories forward and connecting the dots in the Dutton family history.

Here are 10 characters from "1923" who could realistically and compellingly appear in Sheridan's next Yellowstone installment, and why their inclusion would enrich the narrative:

1. Cara Dutton (Helen Mirren): The Matriarchal Anchor

Cara Dutton, the unwavering matriarch of the Yellowstone Ranch, is arguably the most likely character to return. Her wisdom, resilience, and fierce love for her family make her a constant. We can expect to see her navigating the hardships of the Depression and potentially guiding the next generation of Duttons through the tumultuous years of World War II. Her knowledge of ranching, her connection to the land, and her unwavering spirit would make her a crucial figure, even as she ages. Seeing her deal with the challenges of a new era while grappling with the losses and triumphs of the past would be incredibly compelling.

Why she should return: Cara embodies the Dutton spirit of survival and dedication to the land. Her perspective on the changing landscape of America and the challenges to the ranch would be invaluable.

2. Jacob Dutton (Harrison Ford): The Steadfast Protector (with caveats)

Jacob, Cara's husband and the patriarch of the Yellowstone Ranch, is a more complicated case. Given his age and the brutal shootout he endured in "1923," his survival into the late 1930s and 1940s is questionable. However, Sheridan is known for his narrative surprises. While a full-fledged return might be unrealistic, we could see Jacob in flashbacks, offering pivotal advice or shaping the values of the younger Duttons who will lead the ranch in the new era. Perhaps, he could appear in the early years of the hypothetical prequel before succumbing to his injuries or old age.

Why he could return: Even in flashbacks, Jacob's influence on the ranch and the Dutton family is undeniable. His wisdom and leadership were paramount in establishing the ranch's dominance.

3. Jack Dutton (Darren Mann): The Aspiring Rancher

Jack, the son of John Dutton Sr. and the heir apparent to the Yellowstone Ranch, is prime for a return. He's at the perfect age to take on a more central role in the next prequel, navigating the economic hardships of the Depression while trying to maintain the ranch's prosperity. His experiences in "1923," particularly his exposure to the harsh realities of ranching and his budding romance with Elizabeth, have prepared him for the challenges ahead. We can expect to see him taking on more responsibilities and solidifying his position as the future of the Yellowstone Ranch.

Why he should return: Jack represents the next generation of Duttons, the ones who will carry the ranch through the mid-20th century. His journey will be crucial to understanding the Dutton's continued resilience.

4. Elizabeth Strafford (Michelle Randolph): The Dutton Wife Forging Her Own Path

Elizabeth, Jack's wife, is another likely candidate for a return. Her character arc in "1923," moving from a sheltered upbringing to a capable ranch hand, has been fascinating. We can expect to see her continue to evolve, taking on more responsibilities within the ranch and potentially facing the challenges of motherhood during a period of economic hardship and social change. Her resilience and resourcefulness will be vital as she becomes a key figure in the Dutton family.

Why she should return: Elizabeth provides a crucial female perspective on the struggles and triumphs of the Dutton family. Her growth and adaptation to ranch life have made her a compelling character.

5. Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar): The War-Torn Hero

Spencer, Jacob and Cara's nephew, and John Dutton Sr's brother, presents a more complex scenario. His return from Africa at the end of "1923" suggests he'll play a significant role in the future of the ranch. The next prequel could explore his struggles to reintegrate into ranch life after experiencing the horrors of war. He might bring a new perspective and skillset to the ranch, but also carry deep emotional scars that impact his relationships and decisions. The Great Depression would likely exacerbate the trauma he faced, and the looming specter of another war would undoubtedly haunt him.

Why he should return: Spencer's war experience sets him apart from the other Duttons. His struggle to find peace and purpose back on the ranch will be a compelling story.

6. Alexandra (Julia Schlaepfer): The Adventurous Aristocrat

Alexandra, Spencer's wife and a British aristocrat, adds a layer of complexity to the Dutton family dynamic. Her introduction to the American West and her developing relationship with Spencer have been captivating. In the next prequel, we could see her adapting further to ranch life, potentially bringing her own unique skills and resources to bear during the Depression. Her outsider perspective and her love for Spencer will make her a valuable asset to the Dutton family, even as she faces prejudice and judgment from some.

Why she should return: Alexandra represents a cultural clash within the Dutton family, adding intrigue and potential conflict to the narrative. Her transformation from a pampered aristocrat to a resilient ranch wife would be a compelling arc.

7. Teonna Rainwater (Aminah Nieves): The Survivor Fighting for Her People

Teonna, the Native American girl forced into a brutal Catholic boarding school, is one of the most heartbreaking characters in "1923." Her survival is a testament to her strength and determination. The next prequel could explore her journey to reconnect with her tribe and potentially fight for their rights during a period of increased hardship and exploitation. Her story is crucial to understanding the wider context of the American West and the ongoing injustices faced by Native American communities.

Why she should return: Teonna's story provides a vital perspective on the often-overlooked experiences of Native Americans in the early 20th century. Her resilience and determination make her a powerful symbol of hope.

8. Hank (Michael Greyeyes): The Loyal Ally

Hank, Teonna's father, is a stoic and resourceful man dedicated to protecting his daughter and his people. His unwavering loyalty and his deep understanding of the land make him a valuable ally. The next prequel could explore his efforts to rebuild his community and fight against the injustices inflicted upon them by the government and the encroaching settlers. His connection to Teonna and his commitment to preserving his cultural heritage would make him a compelling character to follow.

Why he should return: Hank represents the resilience and strength of Native American communities in the face of adversity. His story highlights the ongoing struggle for self-determination and cultural preservation.

9. Sheriff William McDowell (Robert Patrick): The Corrupt Lawman

Sheriff McDowell, while not a beloved character, is a crucial figure in the power dynamics of the region. His corrupt dealings and his allegiance to powerful interests make him a potential antagonist in the next prequel. We could see him exploiting the economic hardships of the Depression to further his own gain, potentially clashing with the Duttons as they try to protect their land and their livelihood. His presence would add a layer of political intrigue and moral ambiguity to the narrative.

Why he should return: McDowell represents the corruption and greed that often plagued the American West. His continued presence would serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who sought to uphold justice and protect their communities.

10. Unnamed Duttons: Connecting the Dots

While not specifically named in "1923," there's a strong likelihood we'll meet other Dutton family members, perhaps children of Jack and Elizabeth or Spencer and Alexandra. These new characters will be instrumental in bridging the gap between "1923" and the later generations depicted in "Yellowstone." Their stories could explore the challenges of growing up during the Depression and World War II, shaping them into the tough and resilient individuals who will inherit the Yellowstone Ranch.

Why they are important: These new Duttons are essential to understanding the Dutton lineage and the development of the family's values and traditions.

Conclusion:

Taylor Sheridan has proven his ability to craft compelling and complex characters that resonate with audiences. By bringing back these key figures from "1923," he can create a rich and interconnected narrative that explores the Dutton family's history in greater depth. The next prequel promises to be another gripping chapter in the Yellowstone saga, filled with drama, conflict, and the unwavering spirit of the American West. The future of the Yellowstone Ranch, and the Dutton family who call it home, rests on the shoulders of these individuals as they navigate a changing world and fight to preserve their legacy.