Tensions are reportedly running high behind the scenes of Dutton Ranch, the highly anticipated Yellowstone spin-off. Star Cole Hauser, who reprises his role as Rip Wheeler, and the show’s executive producer and co-creator, Taylor Sheridan, are said to be experiencing a significant rift. This friction has allegedly escalated to near-physical altercations, mirroring past conflicts between the two creative forces.
Behind the Scenes Drama on Dutton Ranch
Sources close to the production suggest a growing divide between Hauser and Sheridan, stemming from their differing personalities and professional approaches. Described as a classic “California versus Texas” dynamic, Hauser, hailing from Santa Barbara, is characterized as more laid-back and casual, while Sheridan, a Texas native, is known for his direct and intense work ethic. This contrast has reportedly led to clashes, with one insider noting, “It’s oil and water.”
The alleged animosity isn’t new. Hauser himself revealed in a 2022 interview that he and Sheridan had a physical altercation the second time they met, though they eventually reconciled. However, recent reports indicate another near-confrontation occurred during the filming of Dutton Ranch. “When they were filming Yellowstone, they almost got into a fist fight,” a source claimed. “They butted heads big time because they are so different. But then they were OK in the end, the dust-up was short-lived.”
Coffee Wars and Trademark Disputes
Adding another layer to their complex relationship, Hauser and Sheridan were embroiled in a legal battle over their respective coffee brands. In late 2023, Sheridan’s Bosque Ranch coffee sued Hauser’s Free Rein brand, alleging trademark infringement and unfair competition due to similarities in branding. The lawsuit, which also cited false advertising, was reportedly settled privately in 2024, but the underlying tension may persist.
Criticism Over Production and Location
Further fueling the discord, Hauser has publicly expressed frustration regarding Sheridan’s perceived absence during the initial season of Dutton Ranch. He reportedly told Page Six in July that Sheridan’s lack of hands-on involvement presented challenges, stating, “It certainly was a challenge. It was about putting my head down and working my a** off with what I had around me.” These comments are said to have not been well-received by Sheridan, with a source indicating, “Whether Cole knew it or not, he was sounding an alarm that told the world that there were problems on Dutton Ranch, and that was not appreciated.”
Hauser also voiced concerns about the show’s filming location in North Texas, citing extreme heat as a hindrance to maintaining his character’s physique. “I was trying to keep weight on,” Hauser told People in June. “I mean, I usually put on about 25 pounds [to play Rip], but it was hard to keep it on. I was sweating it out.” The challenging conditions in North Texas, with temperatures soaring over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, have reportedly led to heatstroke and other ailments among the crew, necessitating frequent breaks and the use of ice packs. The presence of rattlesnakes in the filming areas also adds an element of danger.
Industry Perspectives on Sheridan’s Directorial Style
Some industry observers suggest that Sheridan’s demanding approach might stem from his own experiences as an actor. One Hollywood source speculated that Sheridan may harbor envy towards Hauser’s natural acting ability and screen presence. “No actor really gets along with Taylor that well except for Billy Bob Thornton, but they put up with him because his shows are so good,” the source commented. “Taylor might sometimes be hard on actors because when he first came to Hollywood he tried to act and didn’t get very far. That was stressful for him, it was a big bummer.”
This perspective posits that Sheridan’s transition to writing and directing was a response to his early acting career struggles. Despite this, he continues to appear in his own productions. The source added, “I wouldn’t doubt it if Taylor was jealous of Cole. Heck, even Cole’s best friend Ben Affleck is jealous of him these days! Cole’s Rip Wheeler is the coolest dude on TV.”
Hauser’s Gratitude and Sheridan’s Authority
Despite the reported friction, sources indicate that Hauser maintains a deep respect for Sheridan, acknowledging his role in launching Hauser’s career to stardom with Yellowstone. “Cole has a lot of respect for Taylor, so he shuts up. He is extremely grateful that Taylor made him a star with Yellowstone and he now has a job with Dutton Ranch. He knows he owes Taylor a lot,” a Hollywood source stated. Hauser’s career prior to Yellowstone included a small role in 1997’s Good Will Hunting and parts in less prominent films.
Sheridan’s firm control over his projects is well-documented. He has previously removed major actors from his shows, most notably killing off Kevin Costner’s character, John Dutton, in Yellowstone due to creative differences and Costner’s focus on his Horizon film series. “But you can’t really argue with Taylor because his writing is gold. He is the best writer on all his shows, and everyone knows it. Taylor is very tough, but his writing is dynamite,” a source commented.
Season Two of Dutton Ranch Taking Shape
While the behind-the-scenes drama unfolds, the creative team is moving forward with season two of Dutton Ranch. The show is currently in the writing phase, with production slated to begin early next year. Early plot details suggest a focus on Beth and Rip’s efforts to retrieve their son Carter from a cartel, promising significant action. Additionally, the storyline is expected to explore Oreana’s pregnancy.
Sheridan has made some production adjustments, replacing creator and showrunner Chad Feehan with Benjamin Cavell, known for his work on SEAL Team. Cavell is expected to contribute to the writer’s room for the upcoming season.
