Since its premiere in 2018, ‘Yellowstone’ has captivated audiences with its gripping portrayal of the Dutton family and their sprawling Montana ranch. Created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, this neo-Western drama quickly rose to fame, becoming the most-watched U.S. television show. At the heart of ‘Yellowstone’ is the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner, and his children, portrayed by Luke Grimes, Kelly Reilly, and Wes Bentley. The show masterfully intertwines the rich history of Montana, the harsh realities of ranching, and the family’s internal and external conflicts.
The Emergence of ‘1923’: A New Chapter in the Dutton Legacy
Following the monumental success of ‘Yellowstone,’ Taylor Sheridan expanded the universe with the prequels ‘1883’ and ‘1923.’ The latter, set during the tumultuous times of Western Expansion and the Great Depression, delves into an earlier era of the Dutton family. Starring Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford as the Dutton matriarch and patriarch, ‘1923’ has mirrored the success of its predecessor, drawing millions of viewers with its premiere.
Understanding the Connection
‘1923’ serves as a bridge between the two, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the Dutton family’s history and the challenges they faced in establishing and maintaining their ranch. The series focuses on Jacob and Cara Dutton as they navigate the complexities of running the family ranch, dealing with local conflicts, and raising the next generation of Duttons.
Did you watch Yellowstone?
Watching all over-so good. pic.twitter.com/8QV3Ndbq58— Eva McMillan ♥️ (@EvasTeslaSPlaid) January 15, 2024
The Viewing Order Dilemma
The question of whether to watch ‘1923’ before ‘Yellowstone‘ is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Fans have the option to follow the release order or the timeline order of the series. Watching in release order means starting with ‘Yellowstone,‘ followed by ‘1883,’ and then ‘1923.’ Alternatively, watching in chronological order would start with ‘1883,’ then ‘1923,’ and finally ‘Yellowstone.’
Why Watch ‘1923’ Before ‘Yellowstone’
Choosing to watch ‘1923’ first can provide a more traditional viewing experience, allowing the unfolding of the Dutton family’s history and the fate of Yellowstone Ranch to be discovered in a linear fashion. However, starting with ‘Yellowstone’ aligns with the way Sheridan originally presented the story, possibly offering a richer understanding of the characters and their motivations.
