The hit Paramount+ drama series 1923, a prequel to the popular Yellowstone saga, is changing shooting locations for its upcoming second season. After filming its first season in Montana from December 2022 to February 2023, the production led by creator Taylor Sheridan is pulling up stakes and heading to Texas.
According to reports, Season 2 of 1923 starring Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren will begin filming at ATX Film Studios in South Austin. The move comes after the show’s contract with Butte, Montana expired following delays caused by the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strikes.
J.P. Gallagher, Chief Executive of Butte-Silver Bow Government, expressed disappointment at losing the production but acknowledged factors beyond their control influenced the decision. “The choice to film 1923 in Texas is disappointing,” Gallagher stated. “Nevertheless, we respect the production team’s decision and recognize that these choices are impacted by elements outside our jurisdiction.”
Gallagher noted that while discussions were held about 1923 returning to Butte due to the positive previous experience, Montana’s tax incentive programs played a significant role in the production’s move to Texas.
The relocation aligns with efforts by Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick to attract Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone universe productions to the state. In February 2023, Patrick met with Sheridan, stating, “My goal is for Taylor to move all of his TV and movie production to Texas. Working together, I think we can get it done.”
Sheridan, a Texas native praised by Patrick as “the best screenwriter of our time and one of the best storytellers ever to make movies,” appears to have taken the Lt. Governor’s advice for 1923’s second season. While specific release dates are pending, the shift promises to bring new landscapes to the highly anticipated next chapter of the Dutton family saga.
In addition to Ford and Mirren as Jacob and Cara Dutton, 1923 stars Brandon Sklenar, Darren Mann, Michelle Randolph, and others. The first season is currently available to stream on Paramount+.
