You never really leave the Yellowstone universe, instead, you evolve with it. And that’s because Taylor Sheridan’s ever-expanding saga seems not to have an end at all. From Yellowstone, 1883, and 1923, each of these shows has unraveled new layers of the Dutton family.
In this tangled web, some characters leave a lasting impression and don’t want to say goodbye too early. One of them is Michelle Randolph’s Elizabeth, and the actress wishes to come back for the upcoming spin-off series titled 1944, so could this be her second act?
Michelle Randolph wants to come back to the Yellowstone universe in 1944
Michelle Randolph’s performance as Elizabeth Strafford, aka Liz, was loved by everyone. The way she portrayed a young woman who’s thrust into the chaos of the Dutton family’s legacy was simply perfect. She captured everyone’s attention with her courage and vulnerability, which only grew more as her life took darker turns.
She was introduced to us as Jack Dutton’s fiancée, but the character soon became a staple in the show. Their love story seemed full of promises and hope, but it didn’t last, as tragedy struck them both. In a recent interview with CinemaBlend, Randolph was asked if she would be interested in coming back for 1944, and her answer was an enthusiastic yes.
I mean, obviously, I want to play Elizabeth. That’s hysterical that Darren said that. I mean, of course, there’s actresses that I idolize that I would love to play the older me. But I want to play Elizabeth more than them. Put prosthetics on me.
This is not just a fan wish, but also a performer’s desire. The actress wants to see Liz evolve and possibly become an older Dutton matriarch. Liz survived at the end of 1923 and left for good, so it would be great to see how her storyline continued after these events.
How 1944 could bring back Michelle Randolph
1944 is set to explore another chapter of the Duttons, and we’d love to see familiar faces reappear. Liz suffered a miscarriage, lost her parents, endured a rabies scare, went through Montana’s harshest winters, and then became pregnant, until she eventually decided to leave the ranch and head for Boston.
So it’s natural for the fans to crave seeing how she endured the trauma. If she happens to be a part of 1944, Liz would be in her early 40s. We know that Taylor Sheridan loves emotional and character-driven arcs, and she would be the best for it.
With Michelle Randolph also willing to come back, there’s no reason not to have Liz in 1944. Does she become a matriarchal figure and raise her children, or does she keep herself away from Montana’s brutality? The actress’s words are more than just hopeful, they’re a call to action. So, Sheridan, are you listening?