ViacomCBS President Chris McCarthy has confirmed that a Matthew McConaughey-led spinoff of the popular Paramount+ series Yellowstone is in the works. This news comes regardless of whether or not Kevin Costner, the star of Yellowstone, returns to the show. The upcoming spinoff will join other planned projects inspired by Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone universe, including the prequel series 1883 starring Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, the prequel 1923 with Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford, and 6666.

While details about the spinoff are still under wraps, McCarthy acknowledged the significance of Kevin Costner's contribution to the franchise and expressed hope for his continued involvement.

Reports from February suggested that McConaughey was in talks to lead a Yellowstone spinoff as Costner contemplated exiting the show to focus on directing and starring in the Western film Horizon. A spokesperson for Paramount Network stated at the time that they wanted both stars to remain part of the Yellowstone family.

Paramount Network expressed enthusiasm for partnering with McConaughey, describing him as a phenomenal talent. Sources indicated that McConaughey and Taylor Sheridan, the creator of Yellowstone, have been discussing potential collaborations.

The news of this potential shake-up comes after Costner won the Best Actor in a Television Drama Series award at the 2023 Golden Globe Awards for his portrayal of John Dutton in Yellowstone. The show follows the story of Dutton, the patriarch and owner of Montana's largest ranch, as he navigates familial conflicts and clashes with neighboring entities such as the Broken Rock Indian Reservation, national park, and developers.