SAN ANGELO, TX — Bosque Ranch Headquarters LLC, linked to “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan, has initiated a trademark infringement lawsuit against Free Rein Coffee Company and Code of the West LLC. The lawsuit, filed on November 21, 2023 in San Angelo, cites unfair competition and false advertising.
The complaint alleges that the defendants used a brand mark strikingly similar to Bosque Ranch’s registered trademark, potentially misleading consumers. Bosque Ranch, associated with Sheridan’s acclaimed series “Yellowstone,” has been using the “Bosque Ranch” name and its intertwined “BR” brand mark in various ventures since 2004, securing federal registrations in 2020.
The issue intensified after the June 2023 launch of Bosque Ranch Craft Coffee, when Free Rein Coffee Company, connected to “Yellowstone” actor Cole Hauser, began marketing what Sheridan’s side alleged is similar “FR” branded products without authorization. This resemblance, Bosque Ranch contends, is likely to cause consumer confusion.
Bosque Ranch Headquarters LLC is seeking permanent injunctive relief, damages, and profits from the defendants under both the Lanham Act and Texas law for the alleged infringement.
Cole Hauser, a partner in Free Rein Coffee and famous for his role as Rip Wheeler in “Yellowstone,” is not the only cast member reportedly in dispute with Sheridan. Kevin Costner is allegedly considering legal action, claiming Sheridan’s focus on other projects has diverted attention from the original “Yellowstone” series, affecting his profit share.
“Yellowstone” Season 5 has been on break since late 2022, with conflicting reports regarding the delay in completing the season. While some attribute it to Costner’s busy schedule, sources close to the actor suggest Sheridan’s preoccupation with “1883” and “1923” prequels as the cause. Costner’s contract, which includes profit shares from “Yellowstone,” does not extend to the prequels.
Free Rein Coffee Company, formerly “Longhorn Coffee,” was acquired by Hauser and partners last year. The company’s original San Angelo location at 901 S. Oakes St. is undergoing renovations. Free Rein Coffee aims to establish a broad market presence, both nationally and perhaps globally.
The lawsuit was filed in the Northern District of Texas’s federal court in San Angelo. As of now, the process server has not returned the summons, indicating that Hauser and his associates have not yet been formally served.