New 'Yellowstone' spinoff 'Dutton Ranch' surpasses 'Marshals' after only 2 episodes

Dutton Ranch has recorded an early milestone over CBS’s Marshals following the release of its first two episodes, marking a notable split in reception between the Yellowstone franchise’s expanding spinoffs.

The Paramount+ series, focused on Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser), premiered on May 15 and quickly gained critical traction, including a reported 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

In contrast, Marshals, centred on Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes), has received a lower critical response, with a 42% rating cited for its first season.

Both series continue storylines from Yellowstone, but Dutton Ranch has been highlighted for its focus on Carter (Finn Little), the adopted son of Beth and Rip.

The character’s arc centres on his efforts to complete high school while building a future in ranching, alongside his developing relationship with Oreana (Natalie Alyn Lind).

The storyline also introduces tensions within Carter’s school life, where he struggles with peer relationships while attempting to define his place in the Dutton family’s future. His growing connection to Oreana further links multiple families within the narrative.

Marshals continues Kayce Dutton’s storyline alongside his son Tate (Brecken Merrill), whose emotional connection to the East Camp Ranch becomes a key plot point.

In episode 12, Tate’s perspective on the land prompts Kayce to consider selling it, raising questions about the family’s long-term ties to their legacy.

However, Tate’s storyline has been noted as less independent compared with Carter’s arc in Dutton Ranch, where his personal development is positioned as central to the narrative rather than secondary to adult characters.

Both series are executive produced within the wider Yellowstone franchise, originally created by Taylor Sheridan.

While Marshals maintains continuity with earlier storylines, Dutton Ranch introduces a more youth-focused perspective through Carter’s evolving role within the next generation of the Dutton family.