Taylor Sheridan originally wanted Jeff Bridges as John Dutton, but a Paramount executive pushed for Kevin Costner based on marketing appeal.
https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/jeff-bridges-nearly-played-john-dutton-kevin-costner-landed-yellowstone-role
https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/jeff-bridges-nearly-played-john-dutton-kevin-costner-landed-yellowstone-role