John Dutton III

The fifth-generation patriarch of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, the largest contiguous ranch in the United States.

John Dutton III is the widowed fifth-generation patriarch of the Dutton family who owned and operated the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, the largest contiguous ranch in the United States. Portrayed by Kevin Costner, he also served as Montana Livestock Commissioner. As the series progressed, he was continually challenged by those seeking to take control of the ranch's land. At the beginning of the fifth season, he becomes the Governor of Montana and later gives ownership of the ranch to his youngest son, Kayce.