Rancher Reality Star Steve McBee: 'Yellowstone' Ignited a Western Craze, Sparking a 'Craving' for Cowboy Life

Rancher Steve McBee of the reality show 'The McBee Dynasty' discusses the impact of 'Yellowstone' on popular culture, highlighting its role in fueling a nostalgia for the Western lifestyle.

Rancher and reality television star Steve McBee, known for his show 'The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys,' recently shared his thoughts on the cultural phenomenon sparked by the hit TV series 'Yellowstone.' McBee believes that 'Yellowstone's' immense popularity has rekindled a longing for the cowboy way of life.

"I think what 'Yellowstone' has done is tap into something that's in all of us, deep down in our DNA and genetics—farming and ranching," McBee said in an interview with Fox News Digital. "It's how we survived for centuries, raising food and cattle."

McBee, who runs a 40,000-acre farm and cattle empire in Missouri, observed that even individuals removed from agriculture and ranching experience a pull towards the cowboy lifestyle when watching 'Yellowstone.'

"It doesn't matter if you're a Wall Street analyst or a city dweller," he said. "When you see 'Yellowstone,' you can't help but feel a stirring within you, a longing to be on horseback or driving a tractor and working the land."

McBee believes that 'Yellowstone' has played a significant role in promoting Western culture. "It's been a catalyst for a surge in interest in country music and Western fashion," he noted. "Agriculture and ranching are becoming topics of discussion, providing opportunities to educate consumers about the industry's contributions to the environment and the food supply."

Despite his heavy workload, McBee admits to being an avid viewer of 'Yellowstone.' He watched two seasons to prepare for his own reality show. "I also watched a few episodes of 'The Kardashians' just to get a sense of the reality TV landscape," he said.

While McBee's son Steven Jr. had experience on a reality dating show, 'Joe Millionaire,' the McBee family had never ventured into reality television themselves. They were approached by Jeff Jenkins Productions after producers became captivated by their family dynamics while filming at their ranch.

"NBC, Peacock, and Jeff Jenkins Productions gave us a lot of creative freedom," McBee said. "They encouraged us to be ourselves and just let the cameras document our lives."

The McBee family's reality show showcases the challenges of running a massive ranch and other family businesses, providing viewers with an unfiltered glimpse into their daily routines. "We face constant obstacles, and every day is a new crisis," McBee said. "But we believe that 'The McBee Dynasty' is the most authentic reality show because it doesn't shy away from the reality of our lives."

While praising 'Yellowstone' for its entertainment value, McBee believes that 'The McBee Dynasty' offers a more genuine portrayal of ranching. "Our show is a real-life drama, a daily soap opera set on a working ranch," he said. "Everything that happens is genuine, from the business challenges to the personal relationships."

McBee also spoke openly about his personal life, which is featured prominently in the show. He and his wife Kirsti divorced after 28 years of marriage, and he is now involved in a love triangle with two women.

"My situation is complicated, but I've been upfront and honest about my relationships," McBee said. "I want to be clear that I'm not looking to remarry or make any long-term commitments. I'm enjoying the freedom and flexibility of my current situation."

McBee has some words of advice for his sons when it comes to finding a partner. "Choose wisely when it comes to the mother of your children," he said. "Lust and love are different, and it's important to avoid making impulsive decisions. Be patient and find someone who is a good fit for your values."

'The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys' is currently available to stream on Peacock.