The Dutton family story is continuing on CBS, but Marshals Season 2 is bringing some uncertainty about who will remain part of Kayce Dutton’s world. As the Yellowstone spinoff prepares for its second season, one cast departure appears to be confirmed, while several familiar faces are returning, including key members of the original franchise.
The new season premieres on October 4, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. ET on CBS, with production having started in June.
The series follows Kayce Dutton, played by Luke Grimes, after he leaves the Yellowstone Ranch behind and joins an elite unit of U.S. Marshals in Montana. Drawing on his experience as both a cowboy and a Navy SEAL, Kayce works alongside his colleagues to confront violence and protect communities across the region.
His responsibilities extend beyond the job, however. Balancing the psychological demands of law enforcement with his family life remains a major challenge, particularly as he tries to protect his son, Tate, while maintaining connections with people from the Broken Rock reservation.
With Season 1 ending on uncertain notes for several characters, the upcoming episodes are expected to clarify some important questions about the team’s future.
Luke Grimes Returns as Kayce Dutton
Luke Grimes is returning as Kayce Dutton, continuing his role as the central character of the Yellowstone spinoff.
His transition from ranch life to federal law enforcement remains the foundation of the series. Season 2 will continue exploring how Kayce handles the responsibilities of being a U.S. Marshal while dealing with the complicated demands of his personal life.
Production began in June, setting the stage for the show’s return to CBS in October.
Brecken Merrill Returns as Tate Dutton
Brecken Merrill will also reprise his role as Tate Dutton, Kayce’s son.
His return is particularly significant following the Season 1 finale, which left Tate’s safety in question. As one of the characters carried over from the original Yellowstone universe, Tate remains an important part of Kayce’s family storyline.
His continued presence also means the series can further explore the relationship between father and son as Kayce navigates the dangers of his new profession.
Gil Birmingham Returns as Thomas Rainwater

Another familiar face returning is Gil Birmingham, who plays Thomas Rainwater.
Rainwater was an important character in Yellowstone, representing the Broken Rock reservation and its complicated relationship with the Dutton family. His involvement in Marshals helps maintain the connection between the spinoff and the original series.
Alongside Mo, Rainwater remains one of Kayce’s trusted connections to Broken Rock, providing continuity as the story moves further into its new chapter.
What About the Rest of the Cast?
Kayce’s elite U.S. Marshals unit includes Pete Calvin, Belle Skinner, Andrea Cruz, and Miles Kittle. Their professional relationships and personal struggles form a major part of the show’s ensemble storyline.
However, the end of Season 1 left questions surrounding the futures of Belle and Cal. The latest cast update indicates that one departure appears to have been confirmed, although the available announcement does not identify the departing character or provide a complete breakdown of the returning ensemble.
Further casting details are therefore still needed to establish exactly how the team’s lineup will change.
For now, the confirmed returns of Luke Grimes, Brecken Merrill, and Gil Birmingham provide a familiar foundation for the next season.
With Marshals continuing the Yellowstone universe through Kayce’s law enforcement career, Season 2 will bring another chapter of family drama, complicated alliances, and dangerous assignments to CBS.
Source: Compiled from various sources.