.jpg "Yellowstone Prequel Watch: Why 1923 Had Me Completely Hooked")
Spoiler Alert: This post contains spoilers from the Yellowstone universe, especially 1883 and 1923. If you haven't watched and want to go in blind, I suggest stopping here, because I can't help but talk about what I just saw!
A Quick Look Back: The Yellowstone Timeline
If you're like me, and you started with Kevin Costner in modern-day Yellowstone (the original series), then you might have been surprised to learn there's a full backstory behind the Dutton family, spanning generations. It starts with 1883, then moves to 1923, and finally lands in the present-day ranching saga we all know from the original show.
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1883 tells the brutal, emotional journey of how the Dutton family made it west.
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1923 picks up 40 years later, focusing on the next generation trying to hold onto what was built.
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Yellowstone brings us to modern day, with John Dutton III (Costner) doing everything he can to protect the family's legacy.
The Lineage: Connecting 1883 to 1923
Let's sort this out, because the family tree can be a little tangled! Although I've seen both 1883 and 1923, I had to do some research to tie a few characters together.
In 1883, James Dutton (played by Tim McGraw) and his wife Margaret (Faith Hill) lose their daughter Elsa during the journey west. Elsa is also the narrator for both 1883 and 1923.
The Duttons settle in Montana after the events of 1883, but by the time we get to 1923, things have shifted. James and Margaret Dutton (from 1883) have passed away, and their two sons—John Jr. and Spencer—are being raised by James's brother, Jacob Dutton (played by Harrison Ford), and his wife, Cara (played by Helen Mirren).
Jacob has stepped in as the family patriarch, and together, he and Cara are doing everything they can to protect the land, the legacy, and the next generation of Duttons.
The Acting: What Makes 1923 So Gripping
The acting in this series is outstanding. Every character feels real, weathered by life, love, grief, and duty.
Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren absolutely carry the show with grit and grace. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the quiet strength they bring to the Dutton legacy just pulls you in.
But it's not just them. The entire cast delivers. Every scene feels lived-in, and honestly, the show would not hit the same way without such powerful performances across the board.
The Storyline: Drama on the Ranch... and in Africa?
You read that right—Africa! One of the biggest surprises for me in 1923 was the side storyline involving Spencer Dutton, who is Jacob's nephew (and James Dutton's son). He's off in Africa dealing with wild animals, personal demons, and eventually, the long journey home to help save the family.
Meanwhile, back in Montana, everything is unraveling. The Duttons are facing massive challenges—economic hardship, land disputes, and brutal violence.
And then there's Teonna, a Native American girl in a Catholic boarding school who's facing her own horrifying challenges. Her storyline is raw, powerful, and deeply emotional. This part of the story is gripping and quite upsetting.
There's never a dull moment. Every episode left me thinking, "I need to know what happens next!"
The Ending: Are You Kidding Me?!
Let me just say—I was NOT ready for the way Season One ended.
No resolution, no bow tied neatly at the top. Just a big, emotional cliffhanger that left me staring at the screen, whispering "That's it?!" I immediately looked it up, and thank goodness, 1923 has been renewed for a second season.
Still, I'm not a patient person when it comes to cliffhangers. Season 2 is set for release sometime in 2026.
What About Kevin Costner's Character's (John Dutton III) Direct Lineage in Current Day Yellowstone?
One thing I kept wondering while watching 1923 is how exactly this all connects to John Dutton III in Yellowstone. Who's his direct ancestor? Is it Spencer? One of the other brothers?
They haven't made it totally clear yet, and I think they're saving that for Season Two—especially once a few babies arrive (which seems to be where things are heading).
There are tons of theories online, and trust me, I've read more than a few. But for now, we're still piecing it all together.
Final Thoughts
1923 is one of those shows that sticks with you.
It's not just a Western—it's a family saga, a love story, a survival tale, and a sweeping look at a brutal and beautiful time in American history. If you're already a fan of the Yellowstone universe, I'd say 1923 is a must-watch.
Just be warned—you're probably going to fall in love with it like I did. And then you'll be counting the days until Season 2, just like the rest of us.
Let me know in the comments—have you watched 1923? What did you think? Are you Team Spencer? Team Cara? Or just in awe of how good the writing and acting are?
Oh, and so far, my fave character is the son, Spencer!
Here's the trailer:
You can watch 1923 via Amazon Prime where available.
**As per my opinion, viewer discretion is advised: The show includes significant violence and some distressing scenes.
