Cole Hauser Says It Would Be a ‘Shame to Stop a Great Thing’ About the Future of the ‘Yellowstone’ Universe (Exclusive)

YellowstoneThe conclusion of season five could bring an end to John Dutton’s (Kevin Costner) story – but Cole Hauser sees no reason why that should stop the series as a whole.

The 49-year-old actor, who plays Rip Wheeler on the hit Western drama series, tells PEOPLE that he sees room for the Dutton story to continue in some capacity beyond what the upcoming episodes, which air on April 10, To be broadcast in November, be ready.

Although he describes himself as “just a hitman,” Hauser admits that “it would certainly be a shame to stop a great thing” when it comes to bringing it along Yellowstone come to an end completely. “I think the numbers speak for themselves and America has spoken.”

“Taylor [Sheridan’s] and my interest was to bring back an American man who is uncompromising, honest, loyal and with strong values. I believe we did this together,” he adds.

In Season 5, Rip’s role at the Dutton ranch has come into greater focus as he continues to risk life and limb to protect John Dutton (Costner)’s property and fulfill his obligations to his wife Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly). ) and her pseudo-adoptive son Carter (Finn Little).

Costner made the decision not to return for the series’ final six episodes, which air nearly two years after the midseason finale.

At the red carpet premiere on November 7, Hauser told PEOPLE he couldn’t wait for fans to finally see the episodes. “I hope they love it.”

“And, you know, maybe there will be more,” he teased. “Maybe they’re wrong. But if that’s what it is, then it’s been one hell of a ride.”

He added: “As long as Taylor Sheridan is writing,” he would be interested in returning.

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In April, Hauser told PEOPLE ahead of his return to filming the final episode of Yellowstone Season 5 said he was “excited to get back to work.”

“It’s been a year and a half. I’m looking forward to seeing my castmates. “I’m looking forward to seeing and working with Kelly Riley, seeing Taylor again,” he added at the time, noting how “amazing” it was “To create a character that really represents not only our country, but now Europe, South America and Australia permeate.”

For more on Yellowstone, pick up the latest issue of PEOPLE.

“It’s pretty wild that this show has touched so many,” he says, noting how his character embodies someone people want to see with “simple, great values, honesty, courage, determination, love.”

Yellowstone returns Sunday, November 10th at 8pm ET/PT on the Paramount Network. All five seasons are streaming on Peacock and Paramount+.