Kelly Reilly Trades Yellowstone for a Gritty Detective Thriller
Kelly Reilly, best known as Beth Dutton in Yellowstone, is taking on a very different challenge in Under Salt Marsh. The six-part series, created by Claire Oakley, will premiere in 2026 and explore the hidden darkness of a small Welsh town. Unlike her fierce role on the ranch, Reilly now portrays Jackie Ellis, a woman haunted by her past.
A Shocking Discovery Reopens Old Wounds
Jackie’s quiet life shatters when she discovers the drowned body of her eight-year-old pupil, Cefin. As a result, the incident reopens a three-year-old cold case and forces her back into the world she abandoned. At the same time, painful memories resurface, including the disappearance of her niece, Nessa, which had ended her career.
An Uneasy Partnership
To complicate matters, Jackie’s estranged partner, Detective Eric Bull (played by Rafe Spall), returns to Morfa Halen. Previously, he failed to solve the case that now resurfaces. However, Jackie and Bull realize the tragedies may be connected. Consequently, they must put aside their differences and work together before the storm wipes away crucial evidence.
A Strong Supporting Cast
Adding further depth, the ensemble includes Jonathan Pryce, Naomi Yang, Brian Gleeson, Dinita Gohil, Kimberley Nixon, and Harry Lawtey, according to Sky Group. Moreover, Claire Oakley emphasized that Reilly’s character embodies the wild and unforgiving spirit of the marshlands, making her central to the story’s emotional core.
Returning to the Yellowstone Universe
Even as she dives into this new thriller, Reilly will also return to her iconic role as Beth Dutton in The Dutton Ranch, a Yellowstone spin-off. This time, Beth and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) move to a new ranch, joined by Carter (Finn Little). Additionally, the series brings in Oscar nominee Annette Bening as Beulah Jackson, a sharp and powerful Texas rancher.
Two Worlds, One Actress at the Center
Ultimately, Reilly now stands at the crossroads of two massive projects: the windswept marshes of Wales and the sprawling plains of Texas. Through Under Salt Marsh, she portrays grief, resilience, and determination. Meanwhile, in The Dutton Ranch, she continues the fiery legacy of Beth Dutton. Therefore, fans can look forward to seeing her range across two unforgettable worlds.