What Happened to The Ranch (TV series)?

The Ranch debuted on Netflix on April 1, 2016, as a multi-camera sitcom created by Don Reo and Jim Patterson. It starred Ashton Kutcher as Colt Bennett, a former semi-pro football player who returns to his family's struggling Colorado ranch, and Danny Masterson as his older brother Rooster. Sam Elliott played their gruff father, Beau, and Debra Winger their mother, Maggie. The series was notable for its unique release schedule, with each 20-episode season split into two 10-episode 'parts' released roughly six months apart, and for its country music-themed episode titles.

A significant turning point for the series occurred in December 2017 when Netflix fired Danny Masterson following multiple sexual assault allegations against him, some dating back to the early 2000s. Masterson denied the allegations, but Netflix and the producers decided to write his character, Rooster, out of the show. His final appearance was in the tenth episode of Part 5, where Rooster was forced to leave town under threat. Dax Shepard joined the cast in Part 6 as Luke Matthews, a new character introduced to fill the void left by Masterson's departure.

Netflix announced in October 2018 that the series would conclude with its fourth and final season, which would be released in two parts (Parts 7 and 8) in 2019 and 2020, respectively. The final 20 episodes were released, with Part 7 premiering on September 13, 2019, and Part 8 on January 24, 2020. While some reports suggested low ratings and the Masterson controversy contributed to the cancellation, Ashton Kutcher stated that the creative team felt the story had been told and they wanted to wrap it up on their own terms, rather than being a victim of Netflix's tendency to cancel shows prematurely.

The series finale, 'Take Me Home, Country Roads,' aired on January 24, 2020, bringing the Bennett family's story to a close with Colt and Abby back together and expecting another child, and Beau and Joanne keeping the ranch. The show concluded as Netflix's longest-running multi-camera comedy, with a total of 80 episodes. Despite the cast change, the show maintained a dedicated fanbase, though critical reception varied, with some noting a shift from comedy to drama in later parts.

As of September 30, 2026, 'The Ranch' remains available for streaming on Netflix. The legal issues surrounding Danny Masterson continued, culminating in his conviction in May 2023 on two counts of forcible rape and his subsequent sentencing to 30 years to life in prison in September 2023. Other main cast members have continued their careers: Ashton Kutcher has been involved in various ventures, including announcing a new venture firm in 2026. Sam Elliott starred in the Paramount+ series 'Landman,' with its second season in 2025 and a third expected in early 2027. Elisha Cuthbert, after a hiatus, returned to acting with a recurring role on the television series 'Every Year After' in 2026.