# Dutton Ranch showrunner transition

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dutton-ranch-showrunner-transition
> Updated: 2026-07-31T13:13:01.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

In late July 2026, cast member Cole Hauser described the first season of the Paramount+ Yellowstone spin‑off Dutton Ranch as difficult, noting the absence of series creator Taylor Sheridan, the departure of original showrunner Chad Feehan, and the influx of new writers and directors. Hauser said the challenges brought the cast closer together and that Benjamin Cavell had been tapped to lead season two.

A week later, Paramount+ officially announced Cavell’s appointment as the new showrunner, replacing Feehan. The change was framed as a response to reported clashes between Feehan and the series’ stars, including Hauser, Kelly Reilly, and Ed Harris. Cavell, known for his work on Justified, Homeland, SEAL Team and The Stand, was praised by Hauser as the “perfect choice” to guide the production forward.

Together, the snapshots trace the shift from a troubled inaugural season to a leadership overhaul aimed at stabilizing the series for its next chapter.

## Timeline

### 2026-07-31: Dutton Ranch appoints new showrunner amid cast tensions

Benjamin Cavell replaces Chad Feehan as Dutton Ranch showrunner after reported clashes with stars Cole Hauser, Kelly Reilly and complaints from Ed Harris.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dutton-ranch-appoints-new-showrunner-amid-cast-tensions

### 2026-07-23: Cole Hauser discusses Dutton Ranch challenges without Taylor Sheridan

Cole Hauser said season 1 of Dutton Ranch was tough without creator Taylor Sheridan, citing new writers and a change in showrunner, but praised the cast’s effort and anticipates Sheridan’s involvement in season

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cole-hauser-discusses-dutton-ranch-challenges-without-taylor-sheridan

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Cite as: Dutton Ranch showrunner transition. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dutton-ranch-showrunner-transition