James Badge Dale and Marley Shelton 1923 on rugged women in the Yellowstone universe

James, you’re playing John Dutton Sr., an 1883 character. What is it like to carry on that legacy and know that you are also the connective tissue for Yellowstone?

James Badge Dale: Wow, you say that and it’s a lot of pressure. I’m going to tell you the truth. I didn’t watch 1883 on purpose, and then halfway through I started watching it, and I saw myself as a younger person. Actor Audie Rick did such a great job playing John and I started to realize that I was starting to internalize his facial mannerisms. So I’m confused; I should have watched this from the beginning. But it’s great to be a part of it all.

Marley, “Yellowstone” and “1883” are known for their sassy women like Beth, Margaret and Elsa respectively. Where does Emma Dutton fall in this regard? And with which of these three women does Emma most resemble you?

Marley Shelton: I think that they all have a serious backbone. There is strength, firmness. Emma is much more of a traditionalist than Beth. Emma is fully committed to preserving Dutton’s way of life, the ranching world, and the heritage of the ranch. She is a family woman. She’s tough and dedicated, and her stoicism is essential because they could all be killed at any moment. It’s so dangerous to live on a ranch in the Wild West. The only thing that would probably connect these characters is their strength and courage.