Sharp Yellowstone fans need not be told Cole Hauser looks different for his incredible role as Rip Wheeler. No one would blame the actor, or showrunner Taylor Sheridan, for going the extra mile to have Rip look even more intimidating. Turns out, however, there was more to the decision than adding the ‘dark’ to his ‘tall & handsome.’
In short: Yes, Cole Hauser does die his hair and beard black for the role. But how did he and the production team come to this decision?
While speaking with host Jenny McCarthy on her show recently, Hauser reveals just that.
“When I first got the role, as you know Kelly’s a ginger and I’m ginger as well,” the actor starts off in their interview. He refers, of course, to his co-star and love interest, Beth Dutton’s Kelly Reilly – who sports strawberry blonde hair.
“We looked like we were brother and sister! So we kind of had to make sure that wouldn’t be the case,” Hauser laughs. And showrunner Taylor Sheridan agreed. Hauser recalls that Sheridan knew something had to be done when seeing both actors side by side.
“[Taylor Sheridan said] ‘I don’t want to do it to her, but what do you think about dying your hair?’ Because I’ve dyed it for other stuff that I’ve done,” he continues. Having seen himself with darker hair for other roles, Cole Hauser didn’t hesitate. He took one for the team – and the jet-black haired, grizzled Rip Wheeler was born.
“They liked that look, and it’s kind of a harder look. Your eyes pop a little bit more,” Hauser adds. We agree, sir. Bold move. Solid choice.
Cole Hauser: “Your body ends up changing into something that it wasn’t before”
In addition, Hauser also goes into detail on his “extensive training regime” to ensure he fully embodies the “presence of a seasoned cattle rancher.”
“For the physicality, I just rode horses every day, all day long, until my legs were about to fall off,” Hauser reveals. “And that just gets you strong. You eat what cowboys eat, which is just rice, beans and steak.”
Do this for long enough, Hauser says, “And then your body ends up changing into something that it wasn’t before.”
Combine all of this, and you’ve got 50% of the recipe for one of the best characters on television’s top cable drama. The other 50%, of course, comes from the undeniable talent of Cole Hauser as an actor.
Thankfully, fans don’t have long to wait for more from Rip & Beth, either. Season 4 of Yellowstone is expected to hit this summer on Paramount Network. For all the latest from the show until then, stick with your fellow fans at Outsider.com.
[H/T EXPRESS]
Greetings, aficionados of Yellowstone and enthusiasts of the formidable Rip Wheeler! As an expert in the world of television production and character portrayal, it's my pleasure to delve into the fascinating transformation that Cole Hauser undergoes for his iconic role as Rip Wheeler in Yellowstone.
Now, let's break down the evidence and shed light on the decisions made to craft the visually impactful presence of Rip Wheeler. Cole Hauser's commitment to the character goes beyond mere acting, as evidenced by his willingness to physically alter his appearance. In a recent interview with host Jenny McCarthy, Hauser shared insights into the process of transforming into Rip Wheeler.
1. The Ginger Dilemma: Hauser acknowledges the initial visual resemblance he shared with his on-screen love interest, Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton), both being gingers. The need to differentiate their appearances was recognized by showrunner Taylor Sheridan, who sought a solution. This is a nuanced decision that goes beyond the superficial, showing an acute attention to detail in character development.
2. The Hair Dye Decision: Taylor Sheridan proposed the idea of dyeing Hauser's hair to avoid the unintended perception of the characters looking like siblings. Hauser's prior experience with hair dye for other roles made him amenable to the idea. The transformation not only serves a practical purpose but also contributes to the character's aesthetic, giving Rip Wheeler a distinctive and more intimidating appearance.
3. Physical Transformation: Hauser's dedication extends beyond aesthetics to the physicality required for the role of a seasoned cattle rancher. He outlines an extensive training regime, including daily horse riding until physical exhaustion. This commitment to embodying the character's lifestyle, including a cowboy diet of rice, beans, and steak, speaks volumes about Hauser's dedication to authenticity in his portrayal of Rip Wheeler.
4. Resulting Transformation: As a consequence of this rigorous approach, Hauser notes that "your body ends up changing into something that it wasn’t before." This physical transformation is a testament to the actor's commitment to his craft, emphasizing the authenticity brought to Rip Wheeler's character through not only visual changes but also embodied experience.
In summary, the creation of the character Rip Wheeler involves a multi-faceted approach that includes thoughtful aesthetic decisions, collaboration between the actor and showrunner, and a dedication to embodying the character's lifestyle. Cole Hauser's commitment to the role, both in terms of appearance and physicality, contributes significantly to the success of Rip Wheeler as one of the best characters on television's top cable drama, Yellowstone.
And for fellow enthusiasts eagerly anticipating more from Rip and Beth, rejoice! Season 4 of Yellowstone is on the horizon, expected to grace the screens this summer on Paramount Network. Until then, stay tuned with your fellow fans at Outsider.com for the latest updates from the Yellowstone universe.
