The hit Western drama Yellowstone, created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, made its debut in 2018 after filming began the previous year. The story revolves around the Dutton family, headed by John Dutton (played by Kevin Costner), who runs the largest contiguous cattle ranch in the U.S. The series showcases their ongoing struggle to protect their land and way of life from various external threats. Luke Grimes stars as Kayce Dutton, John’s youngest son, and their relationship is marked by complexity and tension.
Season 5, Part 1 aired from November 2022 to January 2023, with the highly anticipated second half set to premiere on November 10, 2024. In May 2023, it was confirmed that this would be the final season of Yellowstone.
Reflecting on his time with Yellowstone, Grimes expressed his mixed emotions. “I finished filming over a month ago, and it still feels heavy because that chapter of my life has closed,” he shared. “Playing this character for seven years has been significant. My cast mates and crew became like family, and I’ll always cherish those memories.”
When asked what he would miss most, Grimes highlighted the bonds formed on set and his deep connection with Kayce. “I genuinely fell in love with playing this character; he’s a better person than I am, and I will definitely miss that,” he stated.
Though saying goodbye to the show is tough, Grimes is staying active with various projects. He recently launched his country music career, releasing his debut album, Luke Grimes, in March. This November, he will kick off his Playin’ on the Tracks Tour, hitting cities like New York, Nashville, and Los Angeles.
“I feel fortunate to pursue a musical path, which I never really anticipated,” he remarked. “Writing music draws from my diverse life experiences and travels.” Grimes enjoys an exciting array of personal experiences, which inform his songwriting.
According to industry data, 2023 saw a significant increase in country music streaming, with over 20 billion on-demand audio streams in the U.S., a 23.7 percent jump from the previous year. As of 2024, the genre continues to thrive, with high-profile artists like Beyoncé entering the space, and popular tracks trending on TikTok.
Grimes pointed out that while music trends shift, audiences are craving authenticity. “With the rise of electronic and digital music, there’s a demand for real songwriting and musicianship. Country has always emphasized the emotional narrative of our experiences,” he explained. He appreciates how country music allows for emotional exploration without becoming abstract, focusing on real human experiences.
Additionally, Grimes is collaborating with Carhartt on a campaign titled “History In The Making.” He stars in their short film, Made in Montana, which honors the dedicated ranchers and farmers in Montana who work tirelessly to preserve their land and ensure a steady supply of essential resources.