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Cole Hauser Says Dutton Ranch Faced Challenges After Taylor Sheridan Stepped Back

This signals a showrunner change to Benjamin Cavell with commitments to give key cast members larger roles in Season 2.

Overview

  • Cole Hauser said this week that production on Dutton Ranch was difficult because Taylor Sheridan did not take part in the writers’ room for Season 1 and the cast had to work with mostly new writers and directors.
  • Sheridan is credited as an executive producer but did not write episodes for the series, marking a major change from his hands-on role on Yellowstone and its prequels.
  • Creator and Season 1 showrunner Chad Feehan exited after completing the first season, and Deadline and other outlets reported his departure was tied to struggles managing a high-profile cast.
  • Ed Harris told Variety he felt underused and nearly quit during filming, and multiple outlets say Paramount has assured him his character will have more to do in Season 2 under the new showrunner.
  • Despite behind-the-scenes strain, Dutton Ranch broke Paramount+ viewership records, was renewed for Season 2, and is slated to resume production in early 2027 under Benjamin Cavell.