When 1883 premiered, it captivated audiences with its raw portrayal of the Dutton family’s perilous journey westward, laying the foundation for the Yellowstone saga. But what made the show equally compelling was the undeniable chemistry and dedication of its cast. Among the standout performers was Isabel May, whose portrayal of Elsa Dutton won hearts for its authenticity and depth. Now, in a recent behind-the-scenes revelation, Sam Elliott—veteran actor and the commanding presence of Shea Brennan—has confirmed what many fans had already suspected: Isabel May’s on-set behavior was as extraordinary as her performance.
“A Natural Leader and a Joy to Work With”
In an interview reflecting on the production of 1883, Elliott praised May for her professionalism, calling her “an old soul in a young body.” He elaborated, “Isabel carried herself with a level of grace and focus you don’t often see in someone so young. She was committed, hardworking, and fearless, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.”
Elliott’s words echo what fans have long theorized based on the series’ behind-the-scenes footage and cast interviews: Isabel May was not just acting the part of a leader; she embodied it in real life.
A Grueling Filming Process
The shoot for 1883 was notoriously demanding. Set against harsh natural landscapes, the production required cast members to endure extreme weather conditions, long hours, and physically taxing scenes. Despite this, May reportedly maintained a positive attitude that uplifted the entire cast and crew.
“She never complained, not once,” Elliott said. “We’d be out in the blistering heat or freezing cold, doing take after take, and Isabel was always there, giving it her all. Her enthusiasm was contagious—it kept us all going.”
A Commitment to Authenticity
May’s dedication to her role as Elsa Dutton went beyond memorizing lines and delivering powerful performances. She immersed herself in the period, learning horseback riding and handling firearms to ensure her portrayal was as authentic as possible.
“She worked harder than anyone,” Elliott revealed. “There were times when she’d stay back after a day of shooting to perfect her riding or go over scenes with the director to ensure everything was just right. She cared deeply about this story and about Elsa, and it showed.”
Her commitment didn’t go unnoticed by her co-stars. Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, and LaMonica Garrett have all spoken about how inspiring it was to work alongside her, with McGraw even describing her as “the glue that held everything together.”
A Bond with Sam Elliott
Elliott and May shared a unique bond on set, largely stemming from their characters’ mentor-mentee relationship in the series. Off-camera, this connection translated into a deep mutual respect.
“Isabel reminded me why I fell in love with acting in the first place,” Elliott shared. “She approaches the craft with such purity and passion. It’s rare to see that, and it was an honor to work alongside her.”
May, for her part, has often spoken about how much she learned from Elliott. “Sam was like a masterclass every day,” she said in an earlier interview. “Watching him work and having the chance to act opposite him was an experience I’ll treasure forever.”
On-Set Camaraderie
One of the most delightful surprises for fans has been the stories of camaraderie that emerged from the 1883 set, and May was often at the center of these moments. Cast members have shared anecdotes about her sense of humor and her ability to bring lightheartedness to even the most grueling days.
“She’s got this amazing energy,” Elliott recalled. “Even when things got tough, Isabel would crack a joke or say something that had us all laughing. She brought a sense of family to the set.”
Fans’ Reactions Confirmed
Longtime fans of the series have speculated about Isabel May’s behind-the-scenes behavior based on her interviews and interactions during press tours. Many noted her humility, maturity, and genuine love for the craft, which Elliott’s comments now confirm.
“She’s exactly what you hope for in a co-star and in a human being,” Elliott concluded. “If she’s the future of this industry, then we’re in very good hands.”
A Bright Future Ahead
As 1883 continues to resonate with audiences, Isabel May’s star is undeniably on the rise. Her portrayal of Elsa Dutton not only anchored the series but also showcased her immense talent and potential.
With endorsements from industry legends like Sam Elliott, it’s clear that May’s success is no accident. Her work ethic, talent, and infectious spirit have cemented her as one of Hollywood’s most promising young stars—and fans can’t wait to see what she does next.
In the words of Sam Elliott: “She’s the real deal.
