Kelly Reilly, an actress celebrated for her commanding presence and intense character portrayals, is set to captivate audiences with a compelling array of projects that underscore her versatility and enduring appeal. Best known globally for her iconic role as Beth Dutton in the sprawling Western epic Yellowstone, Reilly is not only preparing to delve into a new, complex detective drama but is also poised to return to the heart of the Dutton universe in a highly anticipated spin-off. This duality highlights her capacity to embody drastically different personas, from a sharp-tongued, fiercely loyal rancher to a haunted former detective grappling with personal and professional demons.

One of Reilly’s upcoming ventures that has already stirred considerable excitement is Under Salt Marsh, a six-part crime thriller scheduled for release in 2026. This series represents a significant departure from the rugged plains of Montana, transporting viewers to a mysterious Welsh town steeped in dark secrets. At the core of this intricate narrative is Reilly’s character, Jackie Ellis, a former detective whose life is irrevocably altered by a shocking discovery. The series begins with Jackie finding the drowned body of Cefin, an eight-year-old pupil, an unsettling event that immediately reopens a three-year-old cold case that has long haunted the community. For Jackie, this new tragedy doesn’t just trigger an investigation; it painfully resurrects memories of her own past trauma – the disappearance of her niece, Nessa, an unresolved sorrow that tragically brought her career to an end.

The intricate plot of Under Salt Marsh sees Jackie reluctantly drawn back into the world she left behind. The synopsis reveals that Cefin’s death prompts the return of Jackie’s estranged partner, Detective Eric Bull, portrayed by Rafe Spall. Bull is tasked with leading the investigation in Morfa Halen, a community he previously failed, adding layers of professional and personal tension. Convinced that Cefin’s death is linked to the cold case, Jackie and Bull find themselves in a precarious race against time. They must reconcile their fractured relationship and collaborate to unearth long-buried secrets within Morfa Halen before a looming storm threatens to obliterate all crucial evidence. The ensemble cast joining Reilly and Spall includes acclaimed actors such as Jonathan Pryce, Naomi Yang, Brian Gleeson, Dinita Gohil, Kimberley Nixon, and Harry Lawtey, promising a rich tapestry of characters within the fictional, atmospheric setting. Series creator Claire Oakley has passionately articulated the pivotal nature of Reilly’s role, stating, “At the heart of it all is Jackie, a character who embodies the wildness of the place we’re depicting. She’s free-spirited, compassionate, and determined, with a steely resolve that makes her truly of the land. We’re absolutely thrilled to have Kelly Reilly bring Jackie to life.” This role offers Reilly a fresh canvas to explore profound themes of grief, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit in a setting far removed from her established persona.

Yet, even as Reilly embarks on this new narrative journey, the gravitational pull of the Dutton ranch remains strong. Fans eagerly anticipate her return as the inimitable Beth Dutton in a forthcoming Yellowstone spin-off titled The Dutton Ranch. This offshoot promises to delve deeper into the lives of Beth and her equally iconic husband, Rip Wheeler, portrayed by the formidable Cole Hauser. Their relationship has become a cornerstone of the Yellowstone saga, a testament to enduring love forged in the fires of loyalty, passion, and shared hardship.

Beth Dutton is arguably one of the most complex and compelling characters on contemporary television. She is a woman of formidable intellect, razor-sharp wit, and an unapologetically aggressive business acumen, all wrapped in a persona that fluctuates between vulnerable and utterly terrifying. Her loyalty to her father, John Dutton, and her unwavering commitment to protecting the family ranch are absolute, driving her every decision. Beneath her hardened exterior lies a profound vulnerability, shaped by past traumas and an abiding love for her family, particularly Rip. Beth’s fierce protection of the Dutton legacy, often executed with brutal efficiency, has endeared her to millions, making her a symbol of empowerment and resilience in a world dominated by men. She embodies the raw, untamed spirit of the West, a perfect foil to the more stoic figures around her.

Rip Wheeler, on the other hand, is the embodiment of unwavering loyalty and quiet strength. Discovered by John Dutton as a troubled youth, Rip found a home and purpose on the ranch. He transformed from a lost boy into the unshakeable foreman, John’s most trusted enforcer, and Beth’s soulmate. Rip operates on a primal code of honor, a man of few words whose actions speak volumes. His devotion to the Dutton family, especially Beth, knows no bounds. Their relationship is a tempestuous yet deeply rooted love story, a sanctuary of understanding amidst chaos. Their journey, from childhood friends to a fiercely devoted married couple, has resonated deeply with audiences, illustrating that true partnership can thrive even in the harshest environments. Their unconventional wedding and their eventual, albeit unofficial, adoption of Carter further cemented their unique family unit, built not on blood, but on choice and profound allegiance.

The spin-off, The Dutton Ranch, will follow Beth and Rip as they navigate life on a new ranch, with Finn Little reprising his role as their ward, Carter. This relocation presents a fascinating premise, allowing for new challenges and dynamics while maintaining the essence of their characters. Will a change of scenery offer a fresh start, or will the shadows of their past, and the inherent struggles of ranching life, follow them? The series is being helmed by Chad Feehan, whose impressive credits include collaborations with Yellowstone co-creator Taylor Sheridan on Lawmen: Bass Reeves, as well as work on acclaimed shows like Rectify, Ray Donovan, and Banshee. His involvement suggests a continuation of the gritty, character-driven storytelling that defines the Yellowstone universe.

Adding another layer of intrigue to The Dutton Ranch is the casting of multiple Oscar nominee Annette Bening, who will portray Beulah Jackson. Described as a “powerful, cunning, and charming” woman who runs a major Texas ranch, Bening’s character promises to be a formidable presence. Her arrival in the Yellowstone-verse raises intriguing questions: will Beulah Jackson be an ally or a new adversary for Beth and Rip? The potential for a clash of wills between Beth and Beulah, two strong, independent women commanding significant influence, is ripe for compelling television. This addition further expands the rich tapestry of the Yellowstone-verse, which has already welcomed A-list talents like Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren in 1923, and with Michelle Pfeiffer set to appear in the upcoming spin-off The Madison. These expansions demonstrate Taylor Sheridan’s ambitious vision to build a comprehensive historical and contemporary saga around the enduring legacy of the Dutton family and their relentless fight to preserve their land and way of life.

Ultimately, Kelly Reilly stands at a pivotal juncture in her career, poised to deliver powerful performances in two vastly different, yet equally compelling, television dramas. Her role in Under Salt Marsh will showcase her dramatic range in a psychological thriller, while The Dutton Ranch will allow her to revisit and deepen the beloved character of Beth Dutton. Both projects highlight her incredible talent and reinforce her status as a leading force in modern storytelling, ensuring that audiences will continue to be drawn to her magnetic presence for years to come.