Yellowstone fans vent fury as new trailer 'pretends' Kevin Costner is in final season

The latest trailer for the fifth season of Paramount's Yellowstone has given fans a glimpse into the final six episodes, promising an action-packed conclusion to the Dutton family saga. The upcoming episodes will follow the sudden departure of Kevin Costner, who played ranch owner John Dutton.

The new footage teases a showdown for the ranch and further explores the Duttons' uneasy alliance with the Broken Rock Reservation.

Luke Grimes' character Kayce Dutton is seen making a blood pact with Thomas Rainwater (played by Gil Birmingham), while the feud between Jamie (Wes Bentley) and Beth (Kelly Reilly) continues to heat up and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) remains true to his character.

However, the trailer has been criticised for reusing old clips from previous seasons, including unused footage of Costner. Fans have expressed their disappointment, stating that the series "won't be the same" without the Hollywood star.

Some have even accused Paramount of misleading audiences into thinking Costner will return, reports the Mirror.

One fan commented on Reddit: "So they're gonna pretend John is in this season (he's in the trailer a few times)... We all know it's not gonna be the same without Kevin."

Another added: "Looks to be the same old formula too, Jamie messes up, acts a fool, Monica (Kelsey Asbille) cries, Beth threatens someone...at least Mo (Mo Brings Plenty) is awesome."

Backlash surged on YouTube after the release of the newest trailer, with users sharing their disappointment vocally. One commented: "Won't watch it without the man who MADE it. One of the best shows ever so sad."

Another user passionately added: "It's not going to be the same with Costner!!! Yes, Rip is my favorite character but John Dutton is the literal BACKBONE of the entire show and without him I just can't see it being as good!"

One fan expressed a mix of resignation and support stating, "I just wish they could've compromised somehow, but I will NEVER blame Kevin Costner for doing what he did!!"

A different user clarified the trailer's content noting, "This trailer uses new and old footage," and pointed out why Costner features prominently: "For those asking why Kevin is seen so much in this trailer, he's no longer a part of the show, but Kevin was the headliner of Yellowstone. He sold the show, and Paramount will continue to use him."

Speculation arose about the narrative direction, as one comment read: "Why are they trying to pretend like Johns gonna be in this? ".

And another fan critiqued the marketing strategy saying, "I love how they are pretending Kevin Costner is in it. People are going to be p****d."

Yellowstone is set to return in just a few weeks, leaving fans eager to see how the show unfolds without the iconic Kevin Costner leading the charge.

Yellowstone season 5, part 2 premieres Sunday, November 10 on Paramount.