Kayce rides again! Luke Grimes returns as Kayce Dutton in Y: Marshals
Luke Grimes Returns as Kayce Dutton
Luke Grimes will reprise his role as Kayce Dutton in the upcoming series Y: Marshals. While specific plot details remain under wraps, Yellowstone fans and the Dutton Rules podcast team have been speculating about who might join him. Based on Yellowstone’s ending, here’s a look at the characters most likely to ride into the new show.
You Can Bet on Them: Family Comes First
Kayce’s wife Monica and their son Tate are almost guaranteed to be part of Y: Marshals. A single Kayce without his family would feel off to fans. Even if Brecken Merrill, who plays Tate, isn’t available, the show could explain his absence as a college-related subplot. Monica, played by Kelsey Asbille, doesn’t have major commitments outside Yellowstone, so she could appear in most episodes. While the series may not explore Tate’s personal life as much as Yellowstone did, Monica will likely remain central.
Likely Appearances: Fan Favorites and Familiar Faces
Several characters could appear in recurring or cameo roles. Rip and Beth, played by Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly, are strong contenders. They are family, popular with fans, and set to headline their own spin-off Dutton Ranch. However, Y: Marshals will need to establish its own identity. Limiting Rip and Beth to occasional appearances could help the show find its footing. Monica’s grandfather Felix, played by Rudy Ramos, could also appear, as his past Yellowstone appearances carried emotional weight. Chief Thomas Rainwater, played by Gil Birmingham, could provide continuity, living next door while still leading the Broken Rock Reservation. Both characters fit the older network TV demographic and could anchor new storylines.
Don’t Be Surprised: Cowboys Could Return
Some of the bunkhouse boys parted ways at Yellowstone’s end, but a few might return. Lloyd, played by Forrie J. Smith, seems the most likely. He has loyally served the Dutton family for decades, and Smith’s stuntman background and loyalty to Taylor Sheridan make him an ideal fit. Ryan, played by Ian Bohen, might also appear, though the show would need a strong reason to bring him back.
Unlikely Returns: Texas Residents and Political Figures
Characters like Jimmy, played by Jefferson White, and Teeter, played by Jen Landon, are now tied to Travis in Texas. Bringing them back too early could feel forced. Lynelle Perry, played by Wendy Moniz, seems unlikely to return. She spent much of the series in government, and Kayce wanted nothing to do with politics by Yellowstone’s end. Moniz’s commitments to other network procedurals further reduce her chances.
The Bottom Line: Balancing Legacy and Fresh Storytelling
Y: Marshals will likely center on Kayce, Monica, Tate, and a few trusted allies while carving out its own identity. Occasional cameos from popular Yellowstone characters could appear, but the show must balance fan service with fresh narratives. Its success will depend on maintaining the rugged family and frontier dynamics fans love while introducing new adventures for the Dutton clan.