Taylor Sheridan, the creative mind behind Yellowstone, is currently enjoying huge success. With a prequel like 1883 just finishing its first season, two more spin-offs (1932 and 6666) in the works, and a new Jeremy Renner show called Mayor of Kingstown already renewed for a second season, Sheridan has built a strong TV empire. Plus, he has several other series in development. It’s clear Sheridan isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
But what if you’ve already watched everything Taylor Sheridan has created, including his movies like Sicario and Hell or High Water? What should you watch next? Yellowstone attracts viewers for many reasons. You might start watching for the classic frontier justice and stay for the stunning Montana landscapes and realistic ranch scenes.
Sometimes it’s a violent crime thriller, other times it’s a political drama about land ownership or a look into PTSD and family trauma. Because of these diverse themes, there are many shows that offer a similar experience to Yellowstone, whether they’re set in the Wild West or a big city.
Justified
Justified is another modern western drama that you might enjoy. It’s a 2010 FX series based on Elmore Leonard’s story Fire in the Hole. Created by Graham Yost, the show follows Deputy U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens (played by Timothy Olyphant), a lawman with an Old West style, brought into today’s world.
After shooting a hitman in Miami, Givens is moved to Lexington, Kentucky. His actions are similar to Yellowstone’s John Dutton and his loyal ranch hands, though Givens faces fewer consequences. A new sequel series called Justified: City Primeval has been announced, making it a great time to watch the original series.
Where to stream: Hulu
Deadwood
Deadwood is a must-watch western drama from HBO that helped launch Justified. Created by David Milch, the show stars Ian McShane and tells the story of the early days of Deadwood, South Dakota. It features both fictional and real historical characters, blending comedy and tragedy.
Although it was canceled in 2006, Deadwood is considered one of the best dramas ever and even got a final movie 13 years later. It’s still talked about today, including in Matt Zoller Seitz’s Deadwood Bible.
Where to stream: HBO Max
Gunsmoke
Gunsmoke is one of the earliest serious TV westerns. Starting as a radio show in 1952, it moved to TV in 1955 and ran for 20 years with 635 episodes. The show follows Marshal Matt Dillon (played by James Arness) in Dodge City, Kansas, during the 1870s.
It includes moral stories, humor, and drama, often written by famous writers like Sam Peckinpah. Gunsmoke was the longest-running live-action primetime TV series for many years and inspired many other western shows.
Where to stream: Some episodes are available on Pluto TV and Paramount+
Bonanza
Bonanza is another classic western that inspired many similar shows. It focuses on the Cartwright family: patriarch Ben (Lorne Greene) and his sons Adam (Pernell Roberts), Hoss (Dan Blocker), and Little Joe (Michael Landon).
The show combines family drama with western themes, addressing serious social issues and everyday conflicts. Most of the stories take place at the Ponderosa Ranch and nearby towns, giving a realistic view of ranch life.
Dallas
For a more dramatic take on family dynamics, check out Dallas. Unlike the supportive Cartwrights, the Ewings of Texas are always scheming and fighting. Yellowstone is often compared to Dallas because both shows feature powerful families dealing with internal conflicts.
Dallas was the top-rated nighttime soap in the ’70s and ’80s, and its main character, J.R. Ewing, has influenced many TV villains since then.
Where to stream: IMDb TV
Succession
Succession is often called “Yellowstone in the West” because both shows feature a wealthy patriarch and their children vying for control of an empire. While Succession doesn’t have as many viewers as Yellowstone, it’s highly praised for its sharp satire and deep family drama, making it one of the best current TV series.
Where to stream: HBO Max
Godless
Godless is a recent western series outside of Taylor Sheridan’s work. Set in 1884, it follows a young outlaw named Roy (Jack O’Connell) who is on the run after betraying his criminal father figure, Frank (Jeff Daniels). What makes Godless unique is its strong female cast, with excellent performances from Merritt Wever and Michelle Dockery. With only seven episodes, it’s easy to binge-watch.
Where to stream: Netflix
Longmire
Longmire is another great show if you love the natural settings in Yellowstone. This 2012 western crime drama is set in Wyoming and follows a county sheriff dealing with various issues, including conflicts between different authorities over tribal lands. The series features Native American actors and characters, adding depth to the story.
Where to stream: Netflix
The Sopranos
The Sopranos is often considered the best TV drama of all time. Tony Soprano, the main character, represents a certain type of American masculinity—strong, silent, and resistant to change. His character influenced many modern TV antiheroes, including John Dutton from Yellowstone. If you haven’t watched The Sopranos, it’s a must-see.
Where to stream: HBO Max
These shows offer a variety of western themes, strong characters, and compelling stories that can satisfy your craving for more content like Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone.
