Rip Wheeler will have a more prominent role in Taylor Sheridan’sYellowstonegoing forward. Rip, played by Cole Hauser, has been on the show since season 1 aired in 2018. As a loyal member of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, he serves as the foreman to the biggest ranch in Montana. He has also secured a strong relationship with Beth Dutton. Yet, after Kevin Costner (John Dutton III) left the show beforeYellowstoneseason 5, part Bcould be completed, Rip will need to take a very different role on the ranch.
In an interview withScreen Rant’s Grant Hermanns, Hauser explained how Rip’s role will evolve in the second half of season 5.The foreman will be taking over the family’s ranch, while also attempting to support Beth through the potential loss of her father. His dual role should see him struggling with his chosen family’s various enemies. Check out Hauser’s full quote below:
Yeah, ultimately, it’s time to grow up. I think he’s laid the foundation for not only how to run the ranch, but as far as the intricacies of the bunkhouse and dealing with certain things that I’ve done for the last 20 years there. So I feel like, for him, it’s more about not onlysupporting Beth and being there for her, but also helping, in any way he can, tocontinue to run the ranch at the highest level.
What Rip’s New Role Means For Yellowstone
John’s Absence Means That The Franchise Needs To Adapt
After five seasons with the show,Kevin Costner has leftYellowstone. Though he was arguably the show’s central character, the star chose to leave the series after a reported salary dispute and major scheduling issues. Costner was too busy developing hisHorizon: An American Sagamovie series to focus entirely on the hit Sheridan show. That left the other characters in an uncertain place, as they would need to work without John’s presence.Rip Wheeler is now in a position to take his role.
Rip will likely return to take his place as the patriarch of the family.
Throughout much of his time on the show, Rip has been a follower.He is a loyal servant of John Dutton III, accepts nearly any order, and willfully serves as a foreman with little hint that he could ever turn on the family. While Jamie has become more unpredictable, Rip’s loyalty has only become more entrenched. Though he took a trip to Texas during theYellowstoneseason 5, part A ending, Rip will likely return to take his place as the patriarch of the family. With John’s absence, there is no more obvious replacement, given that even Beth has turned on family at times.
Our Take On Rip’s New Role In Yellowstone
It Will Be Nice To See Rip Take A More Prominent Place
It is no great surprise that Rip would be taking on a new role. After all, he is so dedicated to the Dutton family that he let them brand his chest with their symbol. It would be difficult to find anyone withsuch unfathomable loyalty, especially considering that the other family members have been betraying each other. A completely loyal servant is a natural leader. It will also be fun to see Rip taking a more prominent role in the show over even the Dutton siblings. Rip’s new role is a natural step forYellowstoneand should work well.
Yellowstone
Cast
Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, as they defend their expansive ranch against external threats from land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first national park. Released on June 10, 2025, this series examines the complex dynamics and violent conflicts surrounding the largest contiguous ranch in the United States.
