The world of Yellowstone continues to expand, and fans are in for another gripping chapter in the Dutton saga. Taylor Sheridan, known for his intricate storytelling and exploration of the American West, is behind a brand new spin-off that promises to bring fresh tension and high-stakes drama. Titled Rio Paulo, this new series will dive deep into the heart of Texas, a location briefly touched upon in the original Yellowstone series but never fully explored. Now, the spotlight will shift to this captivating backdrop, with a brand-new chapter in the Yellowstone universe.

What is “Rio Paulo”?

The title Rio Paulo, translating to “Stick River” in Spanish, immediately sparks intrigue. At first glance, it may seem like an unusual name for a western series, but as fans know, rivers in Sheridan’s world carry deep symbolic meaning. From 1883 to Yellowstone, rivers often represent pivotal moments of transformation, crossing, and even death. It’s not just a geographical feature—it could be a metaphor for a dangerous journey ahead. Rio Paulo promises to explore this idea further, delving into personal and emotional crossings that will shape the characters’ fates.

Filming Locations: A Glimpse into the Heart of Texas

Filming for Rio Paulo kicked off in the small town of Ferris, located about 20 miles south of Dallas. Ferris’ stunning landscapes and unique elevation changes provide the perfect backdrop for this new Dutton-driven storyline. According to Ferris city manager Brooks Williams, the crew has been working on a ranch in the area, complete with a grand mansion that could serve as a key residence for the show’s characters. Additionally, the production is not confined to just one spot—scenes are being filmed in various picturesque locations around Ferris, downtown, and even more remote areas that showcase the raw beauty of rural Texas.

Other filming locations include Cleburn, Weatherford, and Rio Vista, with rumors circulating about filming in the historic Mineral Wells. Fans are already speculating that these iconic Texas locations will play crucial roles in building the series’ unique atmosphere, and some even believe they may serve as settings for flashbacks or significant events in the characters’ histories.  

Exciting Casting Details and Rumors

In terms of casting, Rio Paulo is already shaping up to be a star-studded affair. A major rumor circulating is that Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey is in talks to star in the series, playing the role of Dalton, a character who seems to be a pivotal figure. McConaughey, who has long been associated with the Texas spirit, is said to be a perfect fit for the rugged, complex world of Rio Paulo. Fans have been eagerly awaiting McConaughey’s debut in the Yellowstone universe, and this could very well be the series that brings him on board.

Another notable name in the mix is Colombian actor Juan Pablo Raba, who will officially join the cast of Rio Paulo. Known for his roles in Narcos and The 33, Raba’s inclusion is sure to add even more depth to the series, with many speculating that his character will be involved in key plot points, possibly even as a partner in crime with McConaughey’s character.

Plot Teasers: Family, Romance, and Dark Secrets

The storyline of Rio Paulo is beginning to take shape, with early teasers pointing to intense family drama, love triangles, and plenty of intrigue. As with the original Yellowstone, power dynamics will play a significant role, with characters constantly navigating loyalty, betrayal, and the fight for survival.

One major plotline fans are looking forward to involves a rodeo sequence scheduled for filming in late August. Rodeos have always been a staple of Western storytelling, and Rio Paulo will showcase this element of Texas culture. This could very well be the setting for a pivotal moment in the show’s narrative, possibly bringing together key characters in a high-stakes competition.

There are also whispers of a thrilling prison-related subplot. The August 15th casting call for the show hints at scenes involving characters visiting a prisoner, and some fans are speculating that this could be a major plotline to follow. If so, this would add another layer of tension and danger to the story, with the potential for alliances to form in the unlikeliest of places.

Returning Characters and Potential Cameos

As if that wasn’t enough, there is also a rumor circulating that Elsa Dutton, portrayed by Isabel May in 1883, could make a return. Her tragic love story was one of the highlights of 1883, and many fans are clamoring for her to make a comeback in Rio Paulo. It’s speculated that Elsa could appear in flashbacks, diving deeper into her short-lived life and the impact her story had on the other characters, especially her Native American love interest. While nothing is confirmed yet, the prospect of seeing Elsa again is enough to excite Yellowstone fans.  

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Rio Paulo?

As the filming continues, anticipation for Rio Paulo is already reaching a fever pitch. The show promises to offer a fresh take on the Yellowstone universe, with a focus on new characters, dangerous twists, and plenty of action-packed drama. The first trailer, which dropped earlier this year, gives viewers a taste of what’s to come, teasing a new chapter full of dark secrets, intense rivalries, and gripping storylines.

Fans can expect the show to premiere in mid-to-late 2026 on Paramount Plus, following the typical production schedule of Taylor Sheridan’s shows. With a mix of fresh faces, familiar themes, and stunning Texas landscapes, Rio Paulo is set to become the next big hit in the Yellowstone franchise.

Conclusion: Get Ready for the Next Yellowstone Chapter

Rio Paulo is shaping up to be a thrilling addition to the Yellowstone franchise. With its rich Texas backdrop, complex characters, and ties to the Dutton family, it’s sure to attract both new viewers and longtime fans. As the production continues to unfold, one thing is for certain—Rio Paulo will be a show worth watching. Stay tuned for more updates, trailers, and behind-the-scenes glimpses as we get closer to the 2026 premiere.

What are your thoughts on Rio Paulo? Are you excited to see McConaughey and Raba join the cast? Let us know in the comments below!