How Marshals Evolves Kayce Dutton’s Relationship To Key Yellowstone Characters Explained By Franchise Vet

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Be aware that this article contains minor spoilers for the first season of Marshals! Mo Brings Plenty and Gil Birmingham reprise their roles in Marshals, expanding on the dynamic between their characters and Kayce Dutton, played by Luke Grimes.

The new CBS series continues the story of Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone, focusing on Kayce as he deals with the loss of Monica and starts fresh by joining the U.S. Marshals. Gil Birmingham and Michael Brings Plenty return as Thomas Rainwater, the chairman of the Broken Rock Reservation, and Mo, his loyal bodyguard and close advisor.

After five episodes, Marshals shows Rainwater and Mo remaining important figures in Kayce’s life. In the Yellowstone finale, they became like brothers to him after he sold the Dutton ranch to the reservation, and they were instrumental in persuading him to join the Marshals. Beyond offering emotional support as he grieves and helps raise Tate, Mo and Rainwater also seem to be hoping to use Kayce’s new position within the Marshals to their advantage.

To mark the midpoint of the series, Grant Hermanns from ScreenRant spoke with Mo Brings Plenty about Marshals. When asked how the show develops the connection between Mo, Rainwater, and Kayce, Brings Plenty highly commended creator and showrunner Spencer Hudnut and the writers for truly grasping the importance of Rainwater and Mo in Kayce’s journey, noting they “provide that balance” he needs.

We’ve been there for him, helping him navigate difficult times, both on Yellowstone and now. Rainwater welcomed Kayce like a brother, but Mo and Kayce share a deeper connection – they’re both strong fighters with an understanding that doesn’t need words. They come from similar backgrounds and naturally relate to each other.

Brings Plenty explained a key difference between Mo and Rainwater – and how it connects Mo to Kayce – is that Rainwater wasn’t raised on the reservation, while Mo has lived there his entire life. Kayce also lived there with Monica and Tate for over ten years. Brings Plenty described Mo as deeply connected to the traditions of Broken Rock and emphasized the importance of continuing and expanding their relationship from the previous seasons.

Mo Brings Plenty explains that Rainwater played a key role in helping Kayce and Monica connect with their culture on Yellowstone. He’s thrilled to continue exploring those themes and believes the audience will appreciate it too. He’s personally excited to see how it unfolds.

Brings Plenty Is Ready To Keep Showing Off His Action Skills In Marshals’ Future

ScreenRant asked me and Gil Birmingham how we felt about returning for Marshals. They pointed out that our characters are both unique, engaging, and play a significant role in Kayce’s story. They wanted to know my initial reaction when we found out Mo and Rainwater would be back for another season.

I was absolutely thrilled! Inside, I was practically doing cartwheels, I was so happy. It’s wonderful to be able to continue portraying these beloved characters in the new series, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity.

ScreenRant asked about the shift in the new show towards more action. They wanted to know what it was like for the actor to participate in action sequences, compared to the more dramatic roles they’d played in shows like Yellowstone and Marshals.

I was thrilled when I read the script! I really enjoy the action sequences, and I think my character is well-suited for them. He’s a natural protector, and I was so happy to see that reflected in the story. It was fantastic – just really good stuff.

ScreenRant asked if the filmmakers tried to use too many stunt doubles, and if the actor had to insist on performing certain stunts themselves.

You know, they did bring in a couple of stunt doubles at one point. Danny Edmo, he’s been a great support for me over the years – a really skilled stunt guy. He’s Blackfoot, from Montana, and I’ve worked with him for ages. They brought in another guy too, but there was this one scene where I felt confident enough to do it myself. Honestly, the fight choreography is tough – a real workout. I’m so grateful Danny’s there for that, and for any driving we have to do. But when it comes to riding horses, I always prefer to do my own stunts whenever possible.

ScreenRant asked, “We’re almost out of time, but I’m thrilled to hear the show’s been renewed for a second season – that’s a great sign of confidence from the studio! What’s one thing you’re really hoping to explore with Mo’s character in season 2?”

I’m open to doing whatever the story and the audience need, whether that means more action or more scenes on horseback. I’m happy to do whatever the writers and showrunner, Spencer, and the whole team think is best – their vision is what matters. I might have some ideas of my own, but I trust their judgment completely.

Be sure to dive into some of our other Marshals coverage with:

  • Mo Brings Plenty addressing the chances of the Yellowstone ranch returning in the new show
  • Brings Plenty on how Marshals keeps Monica’s spirit alive after her early death
  • Brings Plenty on how the sequel spinoff continue a unique tradition that started with Yellowstone
  • Brings Plenty on Mo and Rainwater’s real agenda for having Kayce join the Marshals
  • Brings Plenty on the harrowing and emotional reality behind Marshals season 1’s reservation trafficking story

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2026-04-03 23:50