Cole Hauser Explains How Rip Wheeler is Carrying on John Dutton's Torch

Exclusive: How Rip Honors John Dutton's Vision Amid Family Turmoil

6 days ago

Cole Hauser Reveals Rip Wheeler's Role in Yellowstone's Final Episodes

The Dutton Family's Resilience

With John Dutton, the father of the family dying in the middle of Yellowstone Season 5, Part 2, Cole Hauser reassures that his character Rip Wheeler maintains his determination to execute the late Montana governor's vision for the family ranch.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the middle-aged star shared that Rip would keep his promise of being "100% there" for Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) as well as the rest of the family to the end of the series.

Cole Hauser and Beth Dutton in Yellowstone — Cole Hauser and Beth Dutton in 'Yellowstone'. Paramount Network

A Legacy of Loyalty

"That's what John Dutton (Kevin Costner) would want. That's what he's been taught throughout his life," Hauser emphasized. The return of Yellowstone after nearly two years has thrust Rip into a maelstrom of challenges:

The murder of John Dutton
The death of longtime ranch hand Colby Mayfield
Relocation to Texas
Ongoing threats to the ranch's future

Rip's Unwavering Spirit

Hauser describes his character as "as embedded as the mountains around him," maintaining an unbreakable resolve despite the personal strife. While acknowledging that "s--- happens," he believes in moving forward for the sake of the storyline.

Beyond the Screen: Hauser's Personal Connection

The actor previously highlighted what makes Rip special: "His loyalty is to not only the Dutton family… but to Beth and his kindness." This depth of character continues to resonate with fans of the hit Paramount+ series.

Lucky Brand Collaboration

Beyond his acting career, Hauser has also been working on a new Lucky Brand collection, drawing inspiration from his decades of experience in the field and saddle.

Cole Hauser. Photo: Lucky Brand. Lucky Brand

"I wear jeans nine months out of the year," he shared. "I wear cowboy boots nine months out of the year. And for me… designing with Lucky was trying to find a way to even make it more comfortable."

Final Thoughts

As Yellowstone approaches its conclusion, Rip Wheeler stands as a testament to the Dutton family's enduring spirit – loyal, resilient, and unwavering in the face of adversity.