Puck News reports that Dutton Ranch already has behind-the-scenes drama ahead of its May 15 premiere on Paramount+.
The Yellowstone follow-up series, which brings back Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton and Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler, has reportedly parted ways with creator and showrunner Chad Feehan after the completion of Season 1.
According to Puck’s Matt Belloni, Feehan finished the first season but has been told he will not return for a potential second season.
Chad Feehan Reportedly Out After Season 1
Puck reports the issue was not strictly about the scripts.
The report says Paramount is confident in Dutton Ranch after work on the cut and that the scripts were considered good.
Instead, the reported issue centered on how Feehan ran the production.
Belloni reports Feehan clashed on set with stars Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly, along with other key players who have been part of the Yellowstone franchise for years.
Taylor Sheridan, producer David Glasser, and the stars were reportedly not happy with the situation.
Feehan previously created Sheridan-produced Lawmen: Bass Reeves before taking on Dutton Ranch.
Taylor Sheridan Expected To Keep Control Of The Franchise
Dutton Ranch is the first major follow-up to Yellowstone centered directly on Beth and Rip.
Sheridan wrote and ran the original Yellowstone, along with prequels 1883 and 1923.
Feehan was a relative newcomer to the franchise by comparison, and Puck reports Sheridan and Glasser are expected to elevate another Season 1 writer to the showrunner role if Dutton Ranch gets a second season.
Dutton Ranch Premieres May 15
Dutton Ranch premieres May 15, 2026, on Paramount+ and Paramount Network with a two-episode debut. The first season consists of nine episodes.
The series picks up after the events of Yellowstone and follows Beth and Rip as they start over in South Texas. Finn Little also returns as Carter, with Annette Bening and Ed Harris among the new cast members.
The trailer teased Beth and Rip trying to build a new future while facing new enemies and more violence.
Watch the trailer:
