A legal battle is underway between Taylor Sheridan, the creator of the hit show "Yellowstone," and one of its stars, Cole Hauser. The dispute revolves around the logo for Hauser's coffee company, Free Rein. Bosque Ranch, the equine facility where “Yellowstone” is filmed and is owned by Sheridan, filed a lawsuit alleging trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising.

Hauser's Free Rein coffee company features a logo with intertwined letters F and R, while Bosque Ranch's logo also has intertwined letters B and R. Both the ranch and the coffee company are based in Texas. The lawsuit claims that Hauser's logo is remarkably similar to Bosque Ranch's registered trademark and is intentionally used to deceive consumers about the affiliation with the ranch.

Adding to the complexity, Bosque Ranch partnered with Louisiana-based brand Community Coffee to launch its own line of coffee in June. Hauser's Free Rein debuted four months later in October. This legal battle comes in the wake of the announcement that the fifth season of “Yellowstone” will be its last, with the first half already having concluded in January.

The end of the show's fifth season marked the departure of Kevin Costner, who played the lead role. Sheridan expressed disappointment in Costner's exit, citing the actor's desire to pursue Western films where he would write, direct, and star. However, during Costner's divorce proceedings in September, he claimed to be owed $12 million from “Yellowstone” and hinted at a potential court battle, citing issues with the creative and a decreased salary offer.

The conflict between Hauser's coffee brand and Bosque Ranch adds another layer of drama to the “Yellowstone” franchise. Hauser, known for his role as cowboy Rip Wheeler, co-founded Free Rein Coffee Company with three friends. The brand aims to embody the spirit of the West and the admiration for hardworking cowboys.

Bosque Ranch, which has served as a filming location for both “Yellowstone” and its prequel "1883," accuses Free Rein of misleading consumers by using a logo that closely resembles their registered trademark. Both parties have not yet provided comments on the lawsuit.

As the legal battle unfolds, “Yellowstone” is preparing to air its final five-episode season in November of next year, with filming set to begin in the spring. It remains uncertain if Costner will return for the final season after his departure caused significant waves in the show's production. Reports suggest a feud between Sheridan and Costner, with speculation about ego-driven conflicts.

Hauser has previously praised Costner for his character and kindness on set, noting their shared California roots and family values. Meanwhile, co-star Wes Bentley expressed excitement for the show's conclusion, describing the atmosphere on set as "hot and combustible."

As the court case progresses, the drama surrounding “Yellowstone” continues both on and off-screen, leaving fans and industry insiders eagerly anticipating the resolution of these conflicts.