Yellowstone :There’s been a buzz of excitement and anticipation among Yellowstone fans recently since the announcement of the sequel project, ‘1932’. A trailer has now been quietly released, giving viewers a glimpse of what the next chapter in Taylor Sheridan’s expansive ranching world might look like.
A new chapter, a different setting
The most striking thing about the first look at Rio de Oro is the change in its setting and visual style. Gone (for now) are the vast, majestic mountains of Montana. Instead, the series is set in Texas, specifically in a small town called Ferris, south of Dallas.
The dusty streets, brick houses, and arid, barren land now feel less like a wild frontier and more like the edge of civilization—a different kind of border.
This shift is significant: it means that Rio de Oro isn’t just another installment in the Dutton family saga, but rather a fresh take on the story, both in style and location. The name “Rio de Oro”—Spanish for “River of Gold”—perhaps alludes to water, pathways, hidden channels, or secrets flowing beneath the surface.
What the trailer shows—and what it hints at
The trailer opens with stunning visuals: the vast Texas landscape at dawn, animals crossing a river, fields stretching as far as the eye can see, and fences. There’s a palpable tension in the atmosphere—not just between the land and the people, but between what is seen and what lies hidden. Gunshots ring out. A figure stands by the fence. Horses gallop, kicking up dust. For a moment, a character gazes at the riverbank, as if some secret lies there.
While the trailer doesn’t reveal the names of most of the characters, casting discussions have already begun. Juan Pablo Raba (known for his role in “Narcos”) is reportedly involved—perhaps in a key role—though this remains unclear.
Several media outlets initially linked “Rio Bravo” to the popular “Yellowstone” characters Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser), with Finn Little also reportedly playing Carter.
But here’s the twist: “Rio Bravo” might not be the final title; it could be a working title. 101 Studios has clarified that “Rio Bravo” isn’t the official title of the Beth/Rip spinoff.
Some reports suggest it was a code name used to maintain secrecy during filming.
So, “Rio Bravo” gives us a glimpse, but whether that’s what we’ll see on screen remains uncertain.
What could this mean for the story?
While details have been intentionally kept vague, the trailer and location choices hint at several key themes:
A new place, a new beginning: The move to Texas suggests that some characters—perhaps Beth and Rip—are physically relocating, distancing themselves from the Dutton family’s traditional Montana roots.
Conflict over land and water: Images of rivers and the name “Rio Pallo” suggest that water rights, hidden waterways, or control over land boundaries could be a central theme.
Secrets and hidden truths: The scenes of characters pausing by the river, tense silences, and solitary fences all point to underlying tensions.
Moral complexity: The trailer indicates that this story won’t be a simple tale of good versus evil. It will likely explore gray areas, shifting allegiances, and the burden of legacy.
Challenges and Fan Expectations
Fan expectations will be extremely high. The original Yellowstone series was successful not only for its grandeur, but also for its strong characters, moral values, and sense of place. Translating these elements to a new setting is a risky but exciting endeavor.
Another challenge is the deep emotional connection people have to the beautiful landscape of Montana and the legacy of the Dutton family. Will “Río Bravo” (or whatever its final name will be) be able to maintain that same emotional and visual appeal? Or will it have to establish a completely new identity?
The delay could also be a factor. The spin-off was originally slated to premiere in late 2025, but will now air in 2026.
This will give the producers time to refine, reshoot, or rethink certain aspects of the show.
Final Thoughts
The first look at 1923 doesn’t offer any answers—it only raises questions. Who is heading south, and why? What secrets lie along the riverbank? Which families will survive in this new territory? As a first glimpse of a larger story, it feels purposeful: simple, understated, yet intriguing. For Yellowstone fans, 1923 (or its final form) could mark the beginning of a new myth—one where loyalty is tested not just on the borders, but in the currents of land, heritage, and identity.
If you’d like, I can write an analysis of every scene in the trailer, or compare this first look to similar spin-offs (like 1883 and 1923). Are you interested in learning more?
