The incomplete 1923 tale in the Yellowstone world can now be explained by Harrison Ford's return in the new Yellowstone spin-off. Ford, who plays Jacob Dutton in 1923, has shown a willingness to come back if creator Taylor Sheridan invites him, The Hollywood Reporter reported.
Sheridan, who is accustomed to getting his way, has already persuaded Ford to sign up for the show by inviting him to stay at his Texas ranch. As the Yellowstone universe continues to grow with new spin-offs such as Dutton Ranch and the forthcoming 1944 prequel, Ford's possible return would create continuity and resolution for plots initiated in 1923.
The jump forward to 1944 indicates a new generation of Duttons would come into prominence, yet Ford's return would bring together the changing saga and provide long-delayed conclusions to unresolved strands from 1923.
The unfinished story of 1923
1923, a Yellowstone prequel, delves into the hardships of the Dutton family during a time of drought, Prohibition, and the Great Depression. The series, which features Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, was well received for its intricate storytelling and period accuracy. Ford described the 1923 finale as "fantastic" and having "very tight storytelling."
He wrote that the program was not an easy Western but a complex narrative about a complex past, full of searing details. The show's closure, though praised, still had some unresolved storylines, including the fate of the main characters and the destiny of the Dutton ranch.
The reveal of a time jump to the 1944 spin-off left viewers wondering how the gaps between 1923 and the next generation would be filled.
Harrison Ford's role and possible return
Harrison Ford's appearance as Jacob Dutton drew much attention in 1923. Ford has said he would come back to the role if Taylor Sheridan "asks nice," emphasizing the cooperative relationship between actor and creator. Sheridan's talent for pulling in big stars has been a hallmark of the Yellowstone franchise.
He famously wooed Ford in 1923 by drinking wine and talking on his ranch, wrapping up negotiations in a matter of minutes. Ford's decision to return to his role is key as the franchise moves forward to new spin-offs.
His return can offer a bridge between the occurrences of 1923 and the forthcoming 1944 series, promoting continuity and providing closure to questions regarding the Dutton legacy that still linger.
The expanding Yellowstone universe
The Yellowstone universe keeps expanding with several spin-offs in the works. Dutton Ranch, featuring Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser as Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler, is slated to arrive soon, after the end of the original Yellowstone series. The 1944 prequel will likely be centered on John Dutton II as a young man, following the time leap from 1923.
Some of the 1923 cast members, including Brandon Sklenar and Julia Schlaepfer, have indicated interest in reprising their roles, but their involvement has not been confirmed.
As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, the franchise's expansion is included in Taylor Sheridan's current strategy to cover various eras and lines of the Dutton family tree. Ford's inclusion in any of the projects would assist in keeping narratives cohesive and paying respect to the unresolved aspects of 1923.
The unresolved tale of 1923 receives fresh justification with Harrison Ford's potential return in the Yellowstone spin-off universe. With new shows like Dutton Ranch and 1944 filling out the Yellowstone universe, Ford's inclusion would bridge the gaps between old and new, tying the Dutton family story in a fulfilling manner.