Luke Grimes has spoken about what comes next for Kayce Dutton after the death of Monica in Marshals. The actor told ScreenRant that the tribute episode in Season 1 gave the character a way to move forward, but he also confirmed that Kayce is not fully letting go just yet. The detail that matters most to fans is simple: Kayce is still wearing his wedding ring.
The Line That Sums Up Kayce’s Next Chapter
Grimes described his biggest worry about making Marshals without Kelsey Asbille, who played Monica for all five seasons of Yellowstone. He said he could not picture Kayce without her at first because the character’s story in the flagship series was built around his love for his wife.
“That was always the thing I was most worried about doing Marshals was doing it without Kelsey. That’s legitimate, I just couldn’t wrap my head around Kayce without Monica.”
He then explained how the Season 1 tribute scene changed his view. The ceremony, led by Mo Brings Plenty, honored Monica and also paid respect to his late nephew. Grimes said the scene felt real and gave the story a proper goodbye.
“And now, we can lay that to rest and maybe try some new things. But I will say he’s still wearing the ring, and Spencer and I have talked about, ‘When do I take it off? Are we gonna make this a thing, or is it just gonna not be there one day?’ So, we’re still trying to figure that out.”
That answer covers both sides of the story. Kayce has permission to move forward, but the ring shows he has not closed the door on Monica completely.
Why Monica Died Before Marshals Began
Monica’s death was revealed in the Marshals premiere on March 1, 2026. The episode showed that she died from cancer linked to toxins dumped on the Broken Rock reservation. Spencer Hudnut, the showrunner, said the loss was needed to push Kayce into a new life as a U.S. Marshal.
Yellowstone ended with Kayce, Monica, and their son Tate riding off together. That happy ending left no clear reason for Kayce to take a badge again. Killing Monica gave the spinoff its starting point and turned Kayce’s world upside down.
Hudnut told Entertainment Weekly that Monica’s presence would remain part of the show.
“Her presence and spirit will remain throughout this series. She’s such a huge part of who Kayce Dutton is that she will be with him along the way.”
The death also brought attention to cancer rates on reservations, a real issue the show used as part of its story.
Andrea Cruz and the Will They Wont They Question
Season 1 introduced Dolly Weaver, and some viewers thought a romance might build there. Kayce made it clear he was not ready. Season 2 has shifted attention to Andrea Cruz, played by Ash Santos. The two share a friendship built on similar experiences, and fans have started asking whether it could become something more.
Grimes said the audience is meant to feel that tension.
“They’re meant to feel that way. I’ve always loved a ‘will-they-won’t-they’ storyline, something that builds a desire within the audience to want something to happen.”
He also called Kayce and Andrea “complementary souls” and said the bond is growing from friendship rather than basic attraction. Ash Santos said the slow build is the reason the pairing has drawn attention.
“You don’t really get that anymore. So, it’s really fun from Spencer that he’s giving that to the fans.”
Grimes did not confirm where the story is going. He said plainly that he does not know the answer yet.
Spencer Hudnut Is Open to a Monica Return
A Monica comeback is not part of the current plan, but the showrunner has not closed the door. Hudnut told People that he is “definitely open” to bringing Kelsey Asbille back.
“I would love to work with her. I don’t have any relationship with her, so I have no idea what her point of view would be on that.”
Any return would likely be a flashback, a dream, or a memory rather than a full-time role. Hudnut said the timing would have to be right and that Monica “will always be with Kayce.”
Brecken Merrill, who plays Tate, said he was sad when he learned Monica would not be in the spinoff.
“Kelsey was one of my favorite people to have on set. I was just sad that she couldn’t make it to Marshals. I was heartbroken.”
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Where to Watch Marshals
Marshals airs on CBS in the United States on Sundays at 9 p.m. ET. New episodes stream the next day on Paramount+. Viewers in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and India can watch through Paramount+ where the service is available. Season 1 is already streaming, and Season 2 is airing now.
Also Read: Luke Grimes Says Watching Himself on Screen Messes With His Work
For more Yellowstone universe updates and cast interviews, keep reading VvipTimes.
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