Yellowstoneseason 5, part 2’s trailer has arrived and focuses on how Kevin Costner’s John Dutton III will be written out. The famed neo-Western family drama is set to return this November after an extended hiatus due to some behind-the-scenes issues. During that time,Costner confirmed that he won’t be returning toYellowstonefollowing hisconflict with franchise creator, Taylor Sheridan— something that they, unfortunately, were unable to fix during the hiatus. With that, the show moves forward with a new promotional clip released.
The newYellowstoneseason 5, part 2 trailer is brief, but itteases the end of the road for Costner’s Dutton patriarch. Watch the video fromYellowstone’s official Instagram account below:

The promo features shots of the Dutton family home on their ranch, with voices from the most notable members of the clan. Somehow, there’s afocus on the lost presence of Costner’s John in the mansion inYellowstoneseason 5, part 2.
What Happens To Kevin Costner’s John Dutton III In Yellowstone Season 5, Part 2
John’s Absence Will Be Felt When Yellowstone Returns
Yellowstoneseason 5, part 2 only has six episodes left. They were supposed to be the final outings of the flagship series before its end. Recently, however, a new report suggests thatYellowstoneseason 6 is happening with Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauserat the forefront. There’s still no confirmation, but assuming that it moves forward, it seems like Sheridan will fold the planned direct sequel, which was going tofocus on Rip, Beth, and Kayce, into the main project. Regardless, this makes it more important thatYellowstoneseason 5 addresses John’s fate.
John loves the Dutton ranch; it’s very difficult to justify him leaving his home, especially with Beth and Jamie on the cusp of trying to murder each other.

Considering Costner’s stance, Sheridan has the liberty to write the character out with no chance of him coming back. Between this and the way the show’s story, the biggest theory about the character is thatJohn will dieinYellowstoneseason 5, part 2. The trailer backs up this idea, considering the eerie vibe of the promotional video. John loves the Dutton ranch; it’s very difficult to justify him leaving his home, especially with Beth and Jamie on the cusp of trying to murder each other. John dying could also be a plot device for the rest of the season.
Why Yellowstone Season 6 Is Happening Even After Kevin Costner’s Exit As John Dutton III
Everyone thought Yellowstone would end with season 5, part 2 on Paramount Network, but that reportedly won’t be the case as season 6 is in the cards.
While theYellowstoneseason 5, part 2 trailer doesn’t reveal a lot of footage from the upcoming episodes, it makes it clear that theneo-Western flagship will address John’s fate. There have been concerns that the show will dance around it and keep it a mystery for as long as possible. That said, with season 6 potentially happening, Sheridan can’t afford to evade the question of Cosnter’s fate.
Yellowstone
Cast
Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, as they defend their expansive ranch against external threats from land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first national park. Released on August 24, 2025, this series examines the complex dynamics and violent conflicts surrounding the largest contiguous ranch in the United States.