Cole Hauser says his family helped shape Montana as fans follow Taylor Sheridan from Treasure State to Texas
Cole Hauser says his family helped shape Montana as fans follow Taylor Sheridan from Treasure State to Texas
Cole Hauser says his family helped - Cole Hauser’s ties to Montana are more than just a professional connection. The actor revealed to Fox News Digital that his family’s legacy in the state dates back nearly 140 years, intertwining personal history with the rise of Taylor Sheridan’s iconic Western series. While the show “Yellowstone” brought global attention to Montana’s rugged landscapes, Hauser emphasized that his family’s presence in the Treasure State predates the franchise by generations.
A Legacy Rooted in History
Hauser explained that his ancestors have been part of Montana’s story since 1886, a time when the territory was still shaping its identity. “Montana, my family has been there since 1886. So, the Hauser legacy there is huge,” he said. The actor highlighted the significance of Samuel T. Hauser, his great-great-grandfather, who served as the seventh governor of the Montana Territory. This historical figure played a pivotal role in the state’s formation through his work in banking, mining, and railroads, cementing a deep cultural and familial bond with the region.
“Montana, my family has been there since 1886. So, the Hauser legacy there is huge,” Hauser said.
For Hauser, the opportunity to portray a character in “Yellowstone” felt like a return to familiar ground. “Going back there felt like a homecoming for me,” he added. This sense of belonging underscores how deeply the state is embedded in his personal narrative, even as the show’s popularity has drawn millions of viewers worldwide.
From Landscapes to Lifestyle
The success of “Yellowstone” has not only captivated audiences but also transformed the state into a cultural phenomenon. Experts like Adam Duckworth, president and founder of Travelmation, note that the show has sparked a unique trend in travel known as “set-jetting.” This phenomenon, where fans actively seek to visit the locations featured in their favorite media, has grown substantially in recent years. Duckworth described it as a way for viewers to “jet” to the settings of their favorite stories, immersing themselves in the world they see on screen.
“Traveling to the sets of popular TV shows, movies and even books has increased substantially over the past few years,” Duckworth told Fox News Digital.
Duckworth pointed to “Yellowstone” as a trailblazer in this trend. “Yellowstone was one of the first shows to spark this trend,” he said. The show’s depiction of Montana’s vast wilderness and iconic ranches has inspired fans to explore the state firsthand, contributing to a surge in tourism. Now, as the franchise expands to Texas with “Dutton Ranch,” the same effect is anticipated, with new filming locations likely to draw travelers in search of authenticity and adventure.
Global Reach and Cultural Impact
Hauser admitted that the show’s journey from a local project to a global phenomenon has been remarkable. He shared how the series began as a grassroots effort in Montana before expanding to Los Angeles, New York, and beyond. “We were just in Europe, and it's amazing to watch, you know, the Germans dress up as cowboys, the English,” he noted, illustrating the show’s widespread influence. Hauser’s travels to Australia and New Zealand further highlight how the characters and setting have resonated with audiences on a worldwide scale.
“I honestly don't know other than it's the tremendous writing and storytelling of Taylor Sheridan,” Hauser said.
The actor attributed the show’s success to Sheridan’s ability to craft compelling narratives that reflect the soul of the American West. “He created unbelievable characters and, you know, Montana is a character in its own,” Hauser remarked. This emotional connection to place, he argued, has made the show more than just entertainment—it has become a cultural touchstone that inspires travel and nostalgia.
Shifting the Scene to Texas
As the “Yellowstone” franchise ventures into new territory, Hauser noted the distinct experience of filming in Texas. “God, this next iteration, I mean, it has such new challenges,” he said, reflecting on the differences between Montana’s familiar landscapes and the sprawling vistas of the Lone Star State. The expansion of the show to Texas has sparked debates about how the franchise’s identity might evolve while retaining its core themes.
Hauser’s comments align with the broader impact of the series on American culture. The show’s blend of storytelling and setting has created a new kind of television experience, where audiences not only watch but also live the story. “You know, 10 years ago when we started this, it was a really kind of a grassroot show in Montana and then, you know, we grew out to the edges, Los Angeles, now New York and now the world,” he explained. This growth has turned the state into a symbol of the American frontier, while also influencing how fans engage with the show’s world.
Duckworth emphasized that the appeal of “Yellowstone” lies in its ability to evoke a sense of place. “Any TV show or movie that takes place in a gorgeous setting can ignite a set-jetting trend,” he said. The trend is not just about visiting scenic spots but about experiencing the lifestyle depicted on screen. “The more remote or luxurious the stay, the more it truly becomes a bucket list destination,” he added. This sentiment is echoed by fans who now travel to Montana for a glimpse of the Dutton family’s world and are eager to explore Texas as the next chapter unfolds.
With the franchise’s expansion to Texas, Hauser’s personal connection to the land remains a vital element. His family’s history in Montana provides a unique perspective on the show’s evolution, bridging the gap between past and present. As “Dutton Ranch” continues to captivate audiences, the interplay between family legacy and fictional storytelling may redefine how fans perceive the American West, both in the wilds of Montana and the new horizons of Texas.
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