As “Yellowstone” fans eagerly await news about the upcoming Beth and Rip spinoff, star Cole Hauser is just excited to see where the iconic couple’s story goes next. The rugged heartthrob behind Rip Wheeler will star alongside Kelly Reilly in their own series, without the rest of the “Yellowstone” ensemble. And, he recently shared his hopes for this new chapter in Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone-verse.
Cole Hauser’s Rip Wheeler Was a Collaborative Process
Hauser’s journey as Rip began long before “Yellowstone” became a cultural phenomenon. His connection with co-creator John Linson dates back to when Hauser was just 17, forging a friendship that would later open the door to the show.
When Linson approached him with the “Yellowstone” pilot, Hauser was initially considered for one of John Dutton’s children. However, it was the rough-around-the-edges Rip who caught his eye, despite the character’s limited scenes in the pilot.
“I read the pilot and thought, well, this guy only has a couple of scenes, but I love the character,” Hauser recalled in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
A two-hour phone call with Sheridan sealed the deal, sparking a collaboration that shaped Rip into the fan-favorite he is today. Hauser’s input, combined with Sheridan’s masterful writing, transformed Rip into the loyal, tough-as-nails ranch foreman who stole viewers’ hearts.
A New Chapter for Beth and Rip
The “Yellowstone” finale left fans swooning over Beth and Rip’s move to a new ranch in Dillon, Montana. It set the stage for their spinoff, and Hauser is thrilled about diving deeper into their fiery romance.
Of course, that romance has been a cornerstone of the series’ appeal. But, Hauser admits that leaving behind the “Yellowstone” bunkhouse crew will be tough. In particular, not having his close friend Forrie J. Smith (Lloyd Pierce) as his “right-hand guy” will be tough.
The new series is still in development and doesn’t have a name yet. There aren’t any finished scripts. But, the spinoff will likely focus tightly on Beth and Rip’s relationship, exploring new challenges and adventures as they build a life together. While Hauser is eager to see Sheridan’s vision come to life, he’s keeping his expectations open. He’s excited to discover what fresh chaos awaits the couple.
“Kelly and I, we’re focused on [Rip and Beth’s] relationship and our love together, and what we’re going to get [them] into. I’m excited just like everybody else. I can’t wait to see what they come up with. Hopefully, we’ll start seeing stuff soon,” Hauser said.
Cole Hauser On the Power of the ‘Yellowstone’ Fanbase
Rip Wheeler’s status as a TV icon has led to some unforgettable fan encounters for Hauser. From tattoos to naming children after his character, the devotion of “Yellowstone” fans never ceases to amaze him.
One standout moment occurred at South Point, a cowboy-themed hotel in Las Vegas, where a fan proudly showed off a real tattoo of Rip. These interactions underscore the impact of his collaboration with Sheridan, Reilly, and the “Yellowstone” cast. For Hauser, the fans’ passion is a testament to the show’s storytelling and the enduring appeal of Rip and Beth’s love story.
“It’s been a tremendous ride, and I look forward to hopefully more years with Kelly, seeing what we can create for the audience that is hopefully as good or better,” Hauser said.
“Yellowstone” is available to stream on Peacock.
