As the second season of 1923 approaches its conclusion, there remains ample opportunity to unravel four significant Dutton family mysteries that were initially left open in the Yellowstone series. Created by the talented writer Taylor Sheridan, the original Yellowstone concluded in December 2024, while various spin-offs, including 1923, are slated to shed light on unresolved plotlines. This current installment is particularly anticipated to clarify connections among various Dutton family members and unravel longstanding questions about Yellowstone characters and story arcs.
1923 season 2 has started on a darker note, presenting numerous challenges to Jacob (Harrison Ford) and Cara Dutton’s (Helen Mirren) family amidst a harsh winter. Jack Dutton (Darren Mann) and his spouse, Elizabeth Strafford (Michelle Randolph), are struggling to nurture their relationship while Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar) and his pregnant wife, Alexandra of Sussex (Julia Schlaepfer), are battling to return to their ranch. Meanwhile, Teonna Rainwater (Aminah Nieves) faces a perilous escape. With the season 2 finale in sight, fans hope that many of these narratives will begin to align.
1
Who Is John Dutton III’s Grandfather?
1923 Can Explain Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone Connection
The revelations in 1923 season 2 are poised to clarify the identity of John Dutton III’s grandfather. This elucidation is crucial for understanding whether Spencer or Jack Dutton will continue the Dutton legacy, directly impacting John Dutton and his children, Beth (Kelly Reilly) and Kayce (Luke Grimes). During Yellowstone season 5, Jamie Dutton (Wes Bentley) mentions that John Dutton is a fifth-generation rancher, introducing him as Montana’s next governor. This detail reveals that John Dutton II (Dabney Coleman), who appears in season 2, is a fourth-generation rancher, suggesting that John Dutton’s paternal lineage extends back three generations.
Thus, John Dutton III’s grandfather, the father of John Dutton II, is a third-generation family member. Currently, Jack Dutton, who tragically perished in season 1, is the only known third-generation Dutton. While there are speculations that Spencer might also hold this title, this would contradict established lore since he is a second-generation rancher.
Looking forward, episode 7 of season 2, titled “A Dream and a Memory,”airs on April 6. As Spencer and Jack look forward to fatherhood alongside their respective partners, Alexandra and Elizabeth, a possible lineage connection to John Dutton remains uncertain. The presence of a potential baby named John Dutton II in season 2 could solidify Jack’s ancestry link, given that Spencer’s generation does not directly align with Costner’s character.
2
Who Are Chance And Ned Dutton?
1923 Can Reveal Chance And Ned Dutton’s Parents
Another profound mystery in the Yellowstone saga centers on the identities of Chance and Ned Dutton. Their connection to the Dutton family tree has puzzled fans since the series premiere. During a poignant moment at Lee Dutton’s (Dave Annable) funeral, John Dutton reflects on the graves of Chance and Ned, hinting at their importance.
Speculation about Chance and Ned’s identities suggests they could be the children of Jacob and Cara Dutton. Although Jacob and Cara raised John Dutton (James Badge Dale) and Spencer without their own children, prior timelines indicate the couple may have experienced loss in their early years in Montana. The second season of 1923 could provide crucial insights that either confirm or dispel these theories regarding their significance to John Dutton III.
3
Who Is Patience Dutton?
1923 Can Reveal Patience Dutton’s Identity
Patience Dutton remains an enigmatic figure within the Dutton lineage. Her grave appears in the Dutton family cemetery during Yellowstone season 5, offering a glimpse at her legacy. However, the visibility of dates on her grave is obscured, sparking questions about whether 1931 signifies her birth or death.
If 1931 is indeed her birth year, it implies Patience’s roots lie in the aftermath of the events depicted in 1923. Conversely, if it marks her death, she might be introduced in the remaining storylines of 1923, possibly as a child of Elizabeth or Alex. Such a tragedy could bridge the narratives of 1923 and a future 1944 prequel to Yellowstone, aligning her potential storyline with themes of loss and resilience.
4
How Does Teonna Rainwater Connect To The Dutton Family In Yellowstone?
1923 Season 2 Can Explain Teonna Rainwater’s Connection To The Dutton Family
Lastly, the series can clarify the connection between Teonna Rainwater and the Dutton family. Teonna’s storyline has paralleled the Dutton narrative since season 1, where her harrowing experiences at a native assimilation school were showcased. Following her escape from this toxic environment, viewers have witnessed her fight for survival against the aftermath of her violent acts against those who wronged her.
Despite this depth of character development, Teonna’s exact ties to the Dutton family remain elusive. The prevailing theory suggests she may be related to Thomas Rainwater (Gil Birmingham), the leader of the Broken Rock tribe and John Dutton’s adversary. Teonna shares the Rainwater surname, further enhancing this speculation. Ultimately, the upcoming episodes of 1923 could solidify or redefine these connections, adding another layer to the intricate web of family relations in the Yellowstone universe.