The Real Reason Taylor Sheridan Chose Not To Continue '1923' After Season 2's Shocking Finale

Elle

01-08-2025

It's the hit prequel series that left fans wanting more, but Taylor Sheridan chose not to continue 1923 beyond its season two finale because, from the outset, he envisioned the series as a two-chapter prequel to Yellowstone, intended to tell a specific, self-contained story.
In interviews and official statements dating back to 2022, both Sheridan and Paramount+ consistently indicated that season two would be the final chapter. This creative decision was shaped by his desire to chart the Dutton family's history through distinct eras, with 1923 set to bridge the narrative gap between 1883 and the next planned prequel, 1944.
Despite the massive surge in viewership — season two's finale drew 17 million viewers, a 41% increase over season one — Sheridan maintained his plan, stating there was a natural conclusion to the characters' arcs and the time period he wished to explore. Instead of stretching the story or changing the series' direction in response to audience demand or streaming success, Sheridan focussed on weaving the emotional and historical threads set in motion by season one, including the fates of Jack, Elizabeth, Spencer, and Alexandra, to a close.
Paramount+ is now preparing for 1944, the next prequel series, which will continue the Dutton family saga against the backdrop of World War II. While nothing has officially been confirmed yet, the fact that Spencer fought in the first World War before the events of 1923, makes it entirely possible that he's drafted to fight in World War II as well. D-Day also occurs in June 1944, marking a major turning point for the end of the war. 1944 will also focus on the family's ranching history during a time when most able-bodied men were called to serve overseas.
While casting details have yet to be announced, Jon Hamm, Anya Taylor-Joy, Florence Pugh and Paul Mescal are among the names currently being bandied around by fans who are clamouring for the stars to join the franchise.
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Naomi May is a seasoned culture journalist and editor with over ten years' worth of experience in shaping stories and building digital communities. After graduating with a First Class Honours from City University's prestigious Journalism course, Naomi joined the Evening Standard, where she worked across both the newspaper and website. She is now the Digital Editor at ELLE Magazine and has written features for the likes of The Guardian, Vogue, Vice and Refinery29, among many others. Naomi is also the host of the ELLE Collective book club.