Luke Grimes’ ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff could shine if it channels ‘Wind River’ vibes — real justice, deeper themes, and a story that actually matters.

If Luke Grimes is getting his own Yellowstone spinoff, then it better lean into the Wind River vibes because now that he’s a marshal, there’s real story potential. I’m talking about a series that tackles Native American disappearances, corruption, and justice on the fringes, not just another ranch soap opera.

After 1923, I’m done with recycled Dutton drama. Give me something deeper, something that matters. If this spinoff becomes a spiritual sequel to Wind River, then we might finally have a reason to cheer again. Taylor Sheridan nailed that haunting tone once, and Grimes has the quiet grit to carry it.

Luke Grimes’ new ride Y:Marshals should channel Wind River vibes after 1923

Luke Grimes and Kevin Costner in Yellowstone | Credits: Paramount Network

Ever since I heard Luke Grimes is returning as Kayce Dutton in the new Yellowstone spinoff Y:Marshals, one thought instantly hit me: this should be the spiritual sequel to Wind River.

Now that Kayce’s a U.S. Marshal, there’s room to go beyond ranch politics. This series could finally explore the stories Yellowstone never had time for, like the epidemic of missing Indigenous women. Think about it: Monica’s voice, Kayce’s past, the family’s ties to the Reservation, it’s all there, waiting to be unpacked.

Wind River is still Sheridan’s most powerful work to me. Jeremy Renner’s quiet rage, Elizabeth Olsen’s frustration with a broken system, and that devastating truth beneath the snow, it stuck with me. If Y:Marshals leans into that same energy, it could redefine what a Yellowstone show can be.

Kayce has always had that quiet complexity. Yellowstone teased his depth, but Y:Marshals can go full throttle with it. And with Spencer Hudnut (SEAL Team) running the show, expect a raw mix of military intensity and frontier justice.

This isn’t just another spinoff. It’s a chance to say something real. Sheridan may only be executive producing this time, but if they follow the emotional weight of Wind River, we might just get a show that doesn’t just expand the Yellowstone world but elevates it.

No premiere date yet, but I already know if this show plays its cards right, I’m clearing my schedule.

Why Luke Grimes’ Y: Marshals might just be the wild new sheriff of Western TV

Y: Marshals is gunning for greatness and fast. CBS confirmed the Yellowstone spin-off with Luke Grimes back as Kayce Dutton, this time trading ranch politics for federal justice. He joins an elite group of U.S. Marshals to deliver what Deadline calls “range justice.”

It’s not written by Taylor Sheridan, but the SEAL Team showrunner Spencer Hudnut is steering the ship, so expect tactical action, fast chases, and serious grit. Kayce’s Navy SEAL past meets ranch life, and that combo: Cowboy cool with a modern bite.

The Y in the title nods to Yellowstone’s legacy, and Kayce’s arc has real weight. He’s always been the Dutton with quiet strength and zero fan backlash. Now, he’s front and center, less politics but more grit.

Watch Yellowstone on Peacock & Wind River on Fubo TV.