The Duttons are migrating from the streaming range to the open plains of basic cable. 1923, Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone prequel starring Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren as Jacob and Cara Dutton, hits Paramount Network on December 8, immediately following the return of its troubled parent series. This programming strategy raises questions – is it a calculated move to corral viewers back to the Dutton fold or simply standard cross-promotion?
Yellowstone’s return after an 18-month hiatus, complicated by the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding Kevin Costner’s exit, presents a challenge. From a business perspective, 1923’s cable premiere could be interpreted as a way to mitigate potential viewer attrition, presenting the broader Dutton universe and perhaps even testing the viability of 1923 as a future flagship series.
The prequel, already renewed for a second season on Paramount+, explores the Duttons’ struggles in the early 20th century. Facing drought, economic instability, and the changing landscape of the American West, Jacob and Cara must fight to preserve their ranch and way of life. While the series shares Yellowstone’s thematic DNA – family legacy, land disputes, and Western grit – 1923 distinguishes itself by exploring period-specific challenges like the aftermath of World War I and Prohibition, adding a historical perspective to the familiar Dutton family conflicts.
This is the second Yellowstone spin-off, following 1883, which traced the family’s initial journey to Montana. Whether 1923 truly resonates with audiences beyond the built-in Yellowstone fanbase, however, is still up for debate. Early critical response has been mixed, with some praising the performances and historical setting, while others find it a retread of familiar Yellowstone territory.
The December 8 premiere on Paramount Network might provide a clearer picture of 1923’s potential. Will it lasso a wider audience or simply wander in Yellowstone’s considerable shadow?
1923 Season 1 premieres on Paramount Network on Sunday, December 8, 2024, following a new episode of Yellowstone.
1923 is a MTV Entertainment Studios production for Paramount+. Executive producers are Taylor Sheridan, John Linson, Art Linson, David C. Glasser, Ron Burkle, Bob Yari, and Ben Richardson.
