It has been two years since 1923 wrapped its first season in February 2023, but the wait is finally over—the series has returned. In that time, the Yellowstone universe has changed significantly. Several new spin-offs have been announced, including The Madison, starring Michelle Pfeiffer, while the flagship series has concluded after five seasons. Now, 1923 Season 2 is set to close this chapter of the Dutton family saga, continuing the story of Jacob Dutton (Harrison Ford) and his wife Cara (Helen Mirren). The new season premieres on Paramount+ on February 23, with new episodes dropping weekly on Sundays. Thanks to Paramount+, I had the opportunity to screen the first three episodes ahead of the premiere. Keep reading for my non-spoiler impressions of the new season.
1923 Is Setting A Full Table
Juggling multiple focal points and characters is nothing new for 1923. Season 1 followed three distinct storylines across its globe trotting eight episodes. Jacob and Cara Dutton (Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren) battle to protect their ranch from the ruthless Donald Whitfield (Timothy Dalton). Spencer Dutton’s (Brandon Sklenar) and Alexandra’s (Julia Schlaepfer) time in Africa. And lastly, Teonna Rainwater’s (Aminah Nieves) harrowing escape from an abusive residential school. With so many moving pieces, giving each storyline enough attention was a challenge. Season 2 is no different. In fact, it might be even more expansive.
Once again, Jacob and Cara find themselves fighting for survival on multiple fronts. Whitfield remains a looming threat, but a relentless winter and brutal blizzard create even greater obstacles for the Duttons. Ford and Mirren continue to command every scene they’re in, whether together or apart. While the first three episodes keep them separated more often than not, I’m hopeful the rest of the season will give us more of their on-screen chemistry.
Meanwhile, Spencer and Alexandra remain apart, each making their respective journeys to Montana. Their time together in Season 1 allowed audiences to watch their relationship grow and deepen. Now, with distance between them, we see how each fares on their own, offering even more character development—especially for Alexandra. Without diving into spoilers, she faces particularly grueling challenges that showcase her resilience and unshakable determination to reunite with Spencer. Schlaepfer delivers a standout performance in these moments, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it earns her critical recognition.
The biggest challenge with so many intertwining storylines is pacing. With only eight episodes in the season, the first three still feel like they’re setting the table rather than starting to serve the main course. That’s not to say in any way that these early episodes aren’t compelling. Each storyline is engaging in its own right, but with so much happening, some arcs feel like they’re getting less focus than they deserve. That said, I’m confident that all of this careful buildup will pay off, delivering a powerful final stretch in the remaining five episodes.
Season 2 Doesn’t Shy Away From Darkness
Both Yellowstone prequel series, 1883 and 1923, have never hesitated to explore the harsh and unforgiving realities of their respective eras. Season 2 of 1923 continues that tradition, delving into some of the bleakest aspects of the time. One particularly haunting sequence set on Ellis Island is both disturbing and heartbreaking. It offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of the struggles faced by those attempting to enter the United States. Though these scenes were filmed some time ago, their relevance feels even more pronounced in today’s world.
The grim bleakness doesn’t end there. Teonna Rainwater’s storyline, as before, remains harrowing, as she continues to evade Father Renaud (Sebastian Roché) and Marshal Kent (Jamie McShane). Both men, especially Kent, display a shocking level of bigotry and cruelty, serving as stark reminders of the injustices faced by Native Americans and other marginalized groups. I’ll readily admit, I’m anxiously awaiting a healthy does of comeuppance to be served to Kent.
Series creator Taylor Sheridan remains committed to depicting the harsh realities of this era, refusing to sugarcoat history. While many Westerns gloss over or briefly acknowledge these issues, 1923 confronts them head-on. Even expanding its scope to global events, including Mussolini’s rise and the spread of fascism in Europe. By refusing to shy away from these difficult topics, 1923 reinforces its place as more than just a Western, it’s a historical drama unafraid to explore the darkness of the past.
FINAL THOUGHTS
With less than half the season available for review, it’s difficult to predict exactly how the rest of 1923 Season 2 will unfold. While the numerous storylines can, at times, pull focus from the overarching narrative, the foundation has been firmly set. Given Taylor Sheridan’s track record, I have full confidence that these diverging threads will converge into a well-earned and satisfying payoff by the season’s end. If the remaining episodes maintain the strong writing and direction seen so far, audiences are in for one hell of a ride.
Much like 1883, Sheridan has done a fantastic job with brining this generation of the Duttons to life. Its a bit disappointing knowing that this series won’t continue on for additional seasons. I for one would be more than happy for more Spencer Dutton led seasons. However, with the rumors of 1944 being the next prequel series, there is hope we may still get more Spencer, Alexandra, and others from this branch of the Dutton family tree.
1923 TRAILER
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
Sound off and tell us what you think. Are you looking forward to Season 2 of 1923? Also, what are your thoughts on a potential 1944 series?
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