The Yellowstone Universe Expands with Two Prequels and A Fan Theory

The hit television series Yellowstone has captured the attention of audiences with its gritty portrayal of family and power in Montana’s American West. Now, the franchise is expanding with two prequels: 1883 and 1923. While these series offer exciting new insights into the history of the Dutton family, fans are also developing conspiracies about one character’s relationship to Jamie Dutton’s parentage.

A Fan Theory About Teonna Rainwater and Jamie Dutton’s Parentage

Yellowstone fans are obsessed with fan theories, and one that has been gaining traction involves Teonna Rainwater, a character introduced in season four. Fans speculate that Teonna could be linked to Jamie Dutton’s parentage through a blood connection that would render his adoption story obsolete.

While introducing Teonna’s backstory would be interesting, it would not change the dynamic between Jamie and Beth, which stems from his decision to sterilize her against her will. Without substantial evidence, Teonna’s story is more likely a minor subplot that takes up too much screen time.

‘1923’ Explores Montana’s Early 20th Century

The prequel series 1923 explores the early 20th century in Montana through a new generation of Duttons running the ranch. The first season premiered on December 18, 2022, with Harrison Ford playing Jacob Dutton and Helen Mirren as Cara Dutton.

The cast also includes Brandon Skelnar as Spencer Dutton, Julia Schlaepfer as Alexandra, James Badge Dale as John Dutton Sr., Marley Shelton as Emma Dutton, Darren Mann as Jack Dutton, Michelle Randolph as Elizabeth Dutton, Jerome Flynn as Banner Creighton, Timothy Dalton as Donald Whitfield, Aminah Nieves as Teonna Rainwater, Sebastian Roché as Father Renaud, and Jennifer Ehle as Sister Mary.

The characters in 1923 have complex backstories that draw the viewer’s interest. The series deals with struggles such as drought, lawlessness, and cattle theft. Montana provides a rich backdrop for the Dutton family’s early struggles.

‘1883’ Offers New Insight into Yellowstone History

The Yellowstone prequel 1883 showed the origins of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch through James and Margaret Dutton. After escaping poverty in Tennessee, they established a ranch in Montana’s Paradise Valley.

Their son John and Spencer helped run the ranch. However, James died after being shot by horse thieves on the ranch, while Margaret died from freezing to death during harsh winters.

After their deaths, Jacob and Cara Dutton took over the ranch and turned it into a thriving cattle empire. Jacob and Cara raised John and Spencer as their own sons, even though they had no children of their own.

In 1883, Spencer returns to the ranch after serving in World War I and working as a big-game hunter in Africa. The ranch desperately needed assistance, as Jacob and Cara were getting older.

Spencer or Jack, John’s son, are likely candidates to inherit the ranch as Jacob and Cara grow older.

Fans Rank the Best Characters in Yellowstone Universe

With three series under its belt now, there are plenty of fan favorites throughout the Yellowstone universe. From brand new faces to beloved returning characters, fans are always ranking their personal favorites.

At the top of many lists are Kevin Costner’s John Dutton and Wes Bentley’s Jamie Dutton. But newcomers like Spencer Dutton (Brandon Skelnar) have joined the Dutton family ranks and resonated strongly with viewers across all ages.

Are You a True Yellowstone Fan? Take Our Quiz!

For true Yellowstone fans looking for more ways to immerse themselves in this captivating universe, we’ve put together a fun quiz to test your knowledge of all things Yellowstone.

From questions about the ranch and the Dutton family to queries about the geography and history of Montana, this quiz will put your knowledge to the test. Do you have what it takes to be a true fan of Yellowstone? Take our quiz, and find out!

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons