In the second episode of CBS' Marshals, a mention of Rip Wheeler from Yellowstone provides an update on the character's activities. Showrunner Spencer Hudnut indicates that appearances by Rip and other Yellowstone figures are potentially possible. The series continues to weave in elements from the original show without overshadowing its new narratives.
The March 8 episode of Marshals opened with Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes) and his son Tate (Brecken Merrill) on a fishing trip. As they discussed the future of East Camp, Tate asked who would manage it while Kayce starts his role as a U.S. Marshal. Kayce replied, "Rip found some hands 'til I can find a more permanent solution," referencing Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser), the husband of Kayce's sister Beth (Kelly Reilly).
This line updates fans on Rip's whereabouts two years after Yellowstone concluded in December 2024. At the series' end, Beth had purchased a ranch in Dillon, Montana, near Bozeman, allowing Rip to assist Kayce occasionally, a promise the mention confirms.
Showrunner Spencer Hudnut addressed potential crossovers in an interview with TVLine. "We have a couple of characters who will pop up this season who are from [the Yellowstone] universe," he said, adding, "You know, Kayce still has a sister and brother-in-law who are out there, so, that's always potentially on the horizon." Hudnut emphasized an "open door policy" for Yellowstone cast members, noting, "Anybody that could and would come back, we would be honored to have."
The first episode on March 1 referenced Jamie Dutton's "disappearance," alluding to his death by Beth and Rip in Yellowstone's finale. Hudnut explained that such elements linger as part of Kayce's backstory but won't dominate Marshals. "Kayce's father's death and brother's demise will always hang over him," he said, referring to John Dutton. The show may revisit Kayce's choice to release John's killer, though Hudnut avoids retelling settled stories by creator Taylor Sheridan.
Returning actors include Gil Birmingham as Thomas Rainwater and Mo Brings Plenty as Mo. Kayce's wife Monica (Kelsey Asbille) died of cancer, but spiritual elements from Yellowstone, like sweat lodge journeys, could feature. Rip, Beth, and Carter (Finn Little) will appear in their own spin-off, The Dutton Ranch, on Paramount+ later in 2026.
New episodes air Sundays at 8/7c on CBS.