During a candid discussion at Deadline's Contenders TV Panel, Mirren revealed that she embarked on this unprecedented journey with little knowledge of her character or the storyline.
She confessed that series creator Taylor Sheridan has a unique approach to character development, often tailoring roles to fit the actors chosen to portray them.
This unconventional method presented an intriguing challenge for Mirren, who admitted, "For the first time in my life, I wasn't given a script. I had no idea what it was going to be, and likewise for Harrison [Ford]." Despite the uncertainty, Mirren and Ford were drawn to the project and agreed to participate, trusting Sheridan's vision.
However, the absence of a script left them in a state of both flattery and apprehension, as they awaited the revelation of their characters' identities and narratives.
Mirren, who portrays Cara Dutton in 1923, finally obtained a glimpse into her character's world when she met with Sheridan to delve deeper into the series. Describing the moment she received the script as "amazing," she expressed her delight upon discovering the intricacies of Cara's persona.
While Mirren introduced a personal touch by infusing an Irish accent into Cara's portrayal, she commended the exceptional quality of the writing, emphasizing, "Apart from that, honestly, it's amazing writing, and what's on the page, it arrives and it's kind of perfect. It's extraordinary."
Set in the backdrop of Montana, 1923 chronicles the trials and tribulations faced by the Dutton family as they manage their ranch amidst the challenges of the Great Depression, drought, and Prohibition era.
Mirren's character, the wife of Harrison Ford's Jacob Dutton, serves as the family matriarch, navigating the tumultuous landscape of early 20th-century America. The series, a prequel to the popular show Yellowstone and a sequel to 1883, has garnered widespread acclaim, drawing over 7.4 million viewers upon its debut and earning a commendable critical score of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Following the success of its inaugural season, Paramount+ has greenlit a second season of 1923, with Mirren and Ford expected to reprise their central roles.
As fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of this gripping saga, the future of the Dutton family remains shrouded in mystery, with no official release date announced for the upcoming season.
Amidst her involvement in 1923, Mirren has continued to captivate audiences with her diverse repertoire, recently starring in DC's Shazam! Fury of the Gods.
Meanwhile, Ford is poised to bid farewell to his iconic role as Indiana Jones in the upcoming film Dial of Destiny, slated for a theatrical release on June 30.
As the captivating narrative of 1923 unfolds, viewers can immerse themselves in the compelling world of the Dutton family by streaming the first season on Paramount+. With its enthralling storytelling and stellar performances, 1923 stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the Yellowstone universe, solidifying its place as a must-watch series for fans of gripping drama and rich historical narratives.
