Season two of the much-anticipated television series 1923 premiered on Paramount+ on February 23, 2025, and with it, the intense saga of the Dutton family continues to unravel. This sequel to the widely acclaimed 1883 and predecessor to the modern-day Yellowstone follows the trials and tribulations of Jacob and Cara Dutton, played by Hollywood heavyweights Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, as they navigate tumultuous times on their Montana ranch.
After a two-year break, Ford and Mirren expressed excitement about returning to their roles, noting how quickly they fell back to the rhythms of their characters. “We came back with alacrity and excitement,” Mirren shared during a joint Zoom interview. The two actors reflected on the continuity of their characters and the set, stating it felt like they had just left.
This season picks up on the gripping narrative of the Duttons, who are grappling with the threat of losing their ranch due to unpaid taxes, which could allow antagonist Donald Whitfield (Timothy Dalton) to claim ownership. The premiere episode, as dark and heavy as its predecessors, cements the series' reputation as one of intense human suffering often overshadowed by overt violence and moral gray areas.
The premiere did not shy away from controversy, introducing graphic content early on, which sparked backlash among viewers. A particularly shocking scene involved Whitfield's character engaging in sadistic acts with captive women, eliciting mixed responses on social media. “That whole scenario... is disgusting and gratuitous,” lamented one fan on Reddit, reflecting the sentiments shared by numerous viewers who felt the explicit scenes detracted from the overall narrative.
Many critics weighed in on the premiere, with some praising the show's brutal honesty about human suffering, and others deeming it gratuitous. Outkick noted, "The sex scene at the start of season two was significantly more graphic and disturbing than anything...on Yellowstone.” Despite these upsetting moments, Ford and Mirren defend creator Taylor Sheridan's vision, acknowledging his commitment to storytelling and character development, particularly for women, who are portrayed with complexity and strength onscreen.
Brandon Sklenar, who plays Spencer Dutton, revealed he has known the ending of season two since the outset, describing it as “one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever read.” The anticipation surrounding the plot completion has audiences eager yet anxious about the fates of their beloved characters, particularly the tragic love story between Spencer Dutton and his British love, Alex, played by Julia Schlaepfer.
Shelley Durk, who manages online communities for fans, notes the split audience reaction: “While some appreciate the darker themes, others argue they are excessive and detract from the overall story.” She emphasized how important it is for the show to maintain its integrity without going overboard on sensationalism.
The actors themselves shared their trust in Sheridan's storytelling, with Ford remarking on how they often find out plot developments just weeks before filming, not unlike how one experiences life’s unpredictabilities. This tactic adds to the authenticity of their performance, instilling excitement as they portray their characters' inevitable struggles.
With still many episodes left to air this season, viewers can expect more trials for the Dutton family as they face external threats as well as their inner demons. Despite the controversies, the palpable chemistry between Ford and Mirren as they reprise their roles offers viewers some heartwarming moments amid the darkness. Ford expressed, “I value this relationship,” indicating the complicated yet loving partnership between Jacob and Cara.
Although 1923 has drawn critics over its graphic content, the series remains true to its roots of exploring the harsh realities of life and family. The balance between drama and the ethical dilemmas of survival sets this prequel part of Sheridan’s larger narrative universe apart.
Similarly, as season two dives back to its roots, it doesn’t shy away from the rough edges of its storytelling. Viewers hope as they continue with this season of 1923, they will see the Duttons endure yet rise amid every challenge presented to them.
New episodes of 1923 will air every Sunday on Paramount+, and it remains to be seen whether the series will continue beyond this season, as the network has yet to comment on its future.