Why Is Yellowstone Not on Paramount Plus?

Jonathan Kao

Yellowstone Show

Yellowstone, a popular TV series, is not available on Paramount+. This surprises many viewers who expect to find the show on the streaming platform owned by Paramount Global. The absence of Yellowstone on Paramount+ is due to streaming rights agreements made before the service’s launch.

Paramount Plus Logo
Paramount Plus Logo

The show airs on Paramount Network, a cable channel. However, streaming rights for Yellowstone belong to Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service. This arrangement was established when Yellowstone first premiered, predating the creation of Paramount+.

Fans can watch new Yellowstone episodes on the Paramount Network cable channel. After the season ends, episodes become available on Peacock. This split distribution model reflects the complex landscape of TV rights and streaming partnerships.

Peacock Logo
Peacock Logo

“Yellowstone”, Paramount+, and Peacock

A Tale of Two Streaming Services

You might think that “Yellowstone,” a Paramount Network hit, would naturally reside on Paramount+. However, it’s exclusively streaming on Peacock Premium. This seemingly odd situation stems from a licensing agreement made before Paramount+ even launched. In 2020, Paramount Network struck a deal with NBCUniversal, granting Peacock exclusive U.S. streaming rights to “Yellowstone.”

Why Peacock?

Several factors likely contributed to this decision:

  • Timing: Paramount+ was still in its infancy. Perhaps they didn’t foresee the immense popularity “Yellowstone” would gain.
  • Revenue: Selling streaming rights to Peacock likely generated a hefty sum for Paramount Network.

Spinoffs Tell a Different Story

While “Yellowstone” streams on Peacock, its prequels, “1883” and “1923,” are available on Paramount+. This is likely because these shows were created after Paramount+ was established and the platform had a greater interest in retaining its own content.

Where to Watch “Yellowstone”

If you’re eager to watch the Dutton family saga, you have a few options:

  • Peacock Premium: Stream all seasons of “Yellowstone.”
  • Paramount Network: Catch new episodes as they air.
  • Live TV Streaming Services: Services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offer Paramount Network in their channel packages.

The Future of “Yellowstone” Streaming

It remains unclear where “Yellowstone” will end up once the current deal with Peacock expires. It might eventually move to Paramount+, but that’s just speculation for now.

“Yellowstone” Streaming Options

OptionSeasons AvailableNotes
Peacock PremiumAllExclusive U.S. streaming rights
Paramount NetworkCurrent seasonNew episodes as they air
Live TV Streaming ServicesVariesCheck if Paramount Network is included

Key Takeaways

  • Yellowstone is not on Paramount+ due to pre-existing streaming rights agreements
  • New episodes air on Paramount Network cable channel
  • Past seasons of Yellowstone stream exclusively on Peacock

Availability of Yellowstone on Streaming Platforms

It’s a little confusing but the hit show “Yellowstone” would most naturally be on Paramount+, given that it is a Paramount Network production. However, you might have noticed that “Yellowstone” is absent from the platform. So, what’s the deal?

Yellowstone’s streaming availability is complex due to licensing agreements and platform exclusivity. This impacts where viewers can watch the popular series online.

Streaming Rights and Platform Agreements

Yellowstone is not available on Paramount+, despite being a Paramount Network show. This is due to a streaming rights agreement with Peacock. NBCUniversal’s Peacock holds the exclusive streaming rights for previous seasons of Yellowstone.

New episodes air on the Paramount Network cable channel. After their initial broadcast, these episodes become available on Peacock. This arrangement predates the launch of Paramount+.

The streaming rights deal was made before ViacomCBS (now Paramount Global) consolidated its streaming strategy. This explains the show’s absence from Paramount+.

Comparing Paramount Network, Peacock, and Paramount Plus

Paramount Network airs new Yellowstone episodes first. Cable subscribers can watch live or on-demand through their provider’s app.

Peacock offers streaming access to past seasons of Yellowstone. It requires a separate subscription from cable or Paramount+.

Paramount+ does not have Yellowstone. However, it streams Yellowstone spin-offs like 1883 and 1923. These prequels are Paramount+ exclusives.

Viewers need multiple services to fully access the Yellowstone universe. This can be confusing and potentially costly for fans.

Alternative Ways to Watch Yellowstone

Several options exist for watching Yellowstone without cable:

  1. Live TV streaming services:

    • YouTube TV
    • DirecTV Stream
    • Sling TV
    • Philo

  2. Digital purchase: Buy episodes or seasons on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, or Vudu.



  3. Free trials: Many services offer free trials, allowing temporary access.



  4. Peacock: Stream past seasons with a subscription.



  5. Paramount Network website: Some episodes available with cable login.


These alternatives provide flexibility for viewers to access Yellowstone based on their preferences and budget.

Content and Production of Yellowstone

Yellowstone, a hit drama series, has captivated audiences with its compelling storytelling and stellar performances. The show’s production values and creative vision have set a new standard for modern Western television.

Yellowstone Series Overview

Yellowstone premiered in 2018 on the Paramount Network. The show follows the Dutton family, led by John Dutton (Kevin Costner), as they fight to keep control of their vast ranch in Montana. Each season delves into family conflicts, political maneuvering, and land disputes.

The series has aired five seasons so far. Seasons 1-4 are complete, while Season 5 is split into two parts. Part 1 of Season 5 aired in 2022, with Part 2 expected to conclude the season.

Yellowstone has spawned two prequel series: 1883 and 1923. These shows explore the Dutton family’s history and expand the Yellowstone universe.

Creative Force Behind Yellowstone

Taylor Sheridan is the mastermind behind Yellowstone. He serves as the creator, writer, and sometimes director of the series. Sheridan’s vision blends classic Western themes with modern storytelling techniques.

The show boasts an impressive cast. Kevin Costner anchors the series as John Dutton. Other key performers include Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton and Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler. Their performances bring depth to the complex characters.

Yellowstone’s production team creates a visually stunning portrayal of the American West. The show films on location in Montana and Utah, capturing breathtaking landscapes.

Cultural and Critical Reception

Yellowstone has become a cultural phenomenon. It consistently draws high ratings for the Paramount Network. The show’s popularity has sparked renewed interest in Western-themed entertainment.

Critics have praised the show’s acting and production values. Kevin Costner’s performance as John Dutton has received particular acclaim. The series has earned several award nominations, including nods for its acting and cinematography.

Some reviewers have noted the show’s melodramatic elements and political themes. These aspects have sparked discussions about contemporary issues in rural America.

Yellowstone’s success has led to increased tourism in Montana. Fans visit filming locations and ranch properties featured in the show.

Frequently Asked Questions

Viewers have several options for watching Yellowstone despite its absence from Paramount Plus. Different platforms offer access to various seasons and episodes of the show.

How can I watch Yellowstone Season 5 if it’s not available on Paramount Plus?

Viewers can watch Yellowstone Season 5 on the Paramount Network cable channel. For those without cable, new episodes can be purchased on Amazon Prime, iTunes, or Vudu. These platforms may not have episodes available immediately after they air.

What are the viewing options for Yellowstone on platforms other than Paramount Plus?

Peacock currently streams seasons 1-4 of Yellowstone. Viewers can also purchase individual episodes or full seasons on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play. Some cable providers offer on-demand access to recent episodes.

Is there a reason Yellowstone Season 5 is absent from Paramount Plus’s catalog?

Yellowstone is not on Paramount Plus due to streaming rights. Before Paramount Plus launched, the streaming rights were sold to Peacock. This deal prevents Paramount Plus from offering the show on their platform.

Which streaming service offers the latest season of Yellowstone for viewers?

The latest season of Yellowstone is not immediately available on any streaming service. After the entire season airs on Paramount Network, it will likely become available on Peacock. Until then, viewers can watch new episodes on the Paramount Network or purchase them on digital platforms.

Can I watch Yellowstone on the Paramount Network if it’s not on Paramount Plus?

Yes, viewers can watch Yellowstone on the Paramount Network cable channel. This is the primary way to watch new episodes as they air. Many cable packages include the Paramount Network, allowing subscribers to watch Yellowstone live or on-demand.

When and where can I stream new episodes of Yellowstone including season 5 part 2?

New episodes of Yellowstone, including season 5 part 2, air first on the Paramount Network. After the season concludes, it may become available on Peacock. The exact streaming date for season 5 part 2 has not been announced. Viewers can stay updated by checking the Paramount Network and Peacock websites for release information.