5 Shocking Actors Who Refused Roles in ‘Yellowstone’ and Its Spinoffs!

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Over the last decade, Taylor Sheridan has produced some highly acclaimed TV series. Prior to his career as an award-nominated screenwriter, he had experience as an actor. However, it’s in television show creation where he has achieved the greatest success. His most renowned work, Yellowstone, has given rise to a whole universe of television shows.

In the development of the series 1883 and 1923, which are spin-offs from Yellowstone focusing on the Dutton family, Sheridan has brought to life some remarkable characters. However, it’s intriguing to note that not every actor initially chosen for the show ultimately appeared in them. Some eventually joined the franchise, but a few either found it difficult to fit into the storyline or decided against being a part of the Dutton universe.

Here are 6 actors who turned down roles on Yellowstone ​​​​​​or one of its spinoffs.

5
Sam Elliott

Sam Elliott has expressed his disapproval towards the show “Yellowstone”. In various interviews, he’s openly said it feels too similar to “Dallas” for his taste. Despite Taylor Sheridan extending a role offer for the original series, Elliott declined. However, during their conversation about the initial role, they started discussing potential roles, which eventually led to the concept of him joining one of the spin-offs being proposed.

Elliott feels resentful that the show 1883 originated from Yellowstone. In his opinion, this connection has given the series an unpleasant odor, as he stated to Taste of Country, “We’re somehow associated with Yellowstone, which on some level I can’t stand.” Elliott portrays Shea Brennan, the man guiding the wagon train that the Duttons are traveling on from Texas to Oregon.

4
Ethan Lee

Ethan Lee, a seasoned cowboy and trick rider with numerous years under his belt, was approached by the makers of Yellowstone during its early stages to help train the actors in a cowboy-oriented boot camp. His role was to share his expertise and make the production more authentic. However, due to having young children at the time, he declined the offer.

Subsequently, the Yellowstone team approached him once more with an opportunity to join their show. In Season 2, he debuted as Ethan, a worker on the Yellowstone Ranch. Additionally, he contributed to the series and advised on various aspects while assisting in the training of the production crew.

3
Cole Hauser

Following a prosperous stint as a young thespian, Cole Hauser experienced a moderately thriving acting career until ‘Yellowstone’ approached him. In this acclaimed series, his portrayal of Rip Wheeler stands out, embodying unwavering loyalty to a place and family, which often strains his marriage. Interestingly, Hauser didn’t initially plan on playing Rip.

Initially, his management team suggested he portray either Kayce or Jamie, two of John Dutton’s sons, on the show Yellowstone. They urged him to take up the role. However, upon reading the script, Hauser felt a strong pull towards the character Rip. Despite his management’s advice against it, Hauser persisted in pursuing the role of Rip. In retrospect, his determination proved beneficial for both him and the Yellowstone fans, as they now have one of the show’s most compelling characters to enjoy. It’s difficult to envision anyone other than Hauser playing Rip.

2
Corey Gamble

In the first episode of season 4 of “The Kardashians,” broadcast on Hulu in 2023, it became known that Corey Gamble, who has been dating Kris Jenner for almost a decade, was invited to feature on “Yellowstone.” As an ardent fan of the series during its airing, this opportunity was particularly exciting for him. It was also mentioned in “The Kardashians” that he played a role in getting Kim Kardashian involved with the show.

In this scenario, Jenner held the decision-making power regarding whether Gamble could participate in the program or not, and she vetoed the opportunity. She was against him developing a romantic storyline for the show. Khloe Kardashian jokingly teased Jenner by suggesting that if Jenner were offered a role on the show and required to kiss Kevin Costner, she might be fine with it. In response, Jenner agreed.

1
Cody Johnson

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but marvel at the incredible journey of Cody Johnson, a country music sensation who has truly made a name for himself in recent years. This year alone, he was recognized with the prestigious Song of the Year award at the Academy of Country Music Awards, and in 2024, he was honored with the Album of the Year accolade at the Country Music Association Awards. His impressive tally includes three CMT Music Award victories, alongside numerous other wins and nominations for his outstanding work. With nine studio albums under his belt, it’s fascinating to learn that he once pursued a career as a professional bull rider before finding success in music.

Taylor Sheridan invited him to be part of the cast for 1883 along with country music stars Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, but he couldn’t accept due to scheduling conflicts. Similarly, he was asked to appear in Yellowstone, but had to decline for the same reason – he couldn’t adjust his tour dates on short notice and had to miss out on both opportunities.

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2025-05-28 00:32