Yellowstone’s Cole Hauser Appointed as Honorary Fort Worth Police Officer

Cole Hauser attends Paramount's "Yellowstone" Season 5 New York Premiere at Walter Reade Theater in New York City on Nov. 3, 2022. (Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)

Actor Cole Hauser, who plays ranch foreman Rip Wheeler on Paramount’s hit TV series “Yellowstone,” was appointed as an honorary Fort Worth Police officer.

Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes made the honorary appointment during a ceremony in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 17, the department announced on social media. The Fort Worth Mounted Patrol Unit was also on hand for the event.

“THE Cole Hauser, aka Rip from Yellowstone, was appointed an honorary Fort Worth Police Officer today by Chief Noakes as a small token for his respect and support for the men & women in blue who serve our community and our military members and veterans,” the Facebook post reads.

The 49-year-old fan favorite is passionate about helping the families of fallen military members and first responders. During the event, he donned a baseball cap and shirt bearing the name of his recently launched coffee brand, Free Rein Coffee Company. He also passed out samples of his brew.

“We can’t wait to brew his new brand of coffee, Free Rein Coffee Company,” the Facebook post continued. “We value his support of Special Operations Warrior Foundation and Tunnel to Towers Foundation. ... Please join us in welcoming Cole as an honorary member of the #FWFD family!”

Mr. Hauser and his business partners’ venture, which aims to serve more than a “smooth” cup of joe, gives a portion of its sales to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

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The Tampa, Florida-based nonprofit provides “cradle to career” educational support for the surviving children of Special Operations Personnel who perish while serving. The foundation also provides financial grants to “severely combat-wounded, ill, and injured Special Operations Personnel who require hospitalization.”

“With Free Rein, we’re not only crafting a premium coffee experience but also paying a heartfelt homage to the American Dream,” Mr. Hauser said in a press release. “As a nation built on dreams and aspirations, we want to inspire the go-getters, the dreamers, and the believers to fuel their pursuits. Just as the American Dream knows no boundaries, we aim to exceed expectations and create a legacy of our own—one that is deeply connected to our roots and the core values that shaped us. I am so excited for everyone to finally have their hands on this coffee!”

Free Rein coffee is roasted in West Texas and features nearly a dozen roasts with names like American Dirt and Heavy Spur.

Rocky Launch

Shortly after Mr. Hauser’s coffee brand launched in October 2023, “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan’s Bosque Ranch sued Free Rein for alleged trademark infringement.

The complaint filed in November accused the defendants of using a trademark that was too similar to the Bosque Ranch logo. Both brands used intertwined initials in their logos, KTSM-TV reported.

About a month later, a federal judge dismissed the case after Mr. Sheridan’s lawyers asked that the lawsuit be dropped.

In December, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation honored Mr. Hauser for his commitment and support of the organization. He has been seen in multiple PSAs and television specials and participated in the 22nd Annual Tunnel to Towers 5K Run and Walk in New York City.

Mr. Hauser became a household name for his portrayal of Rip Wheeler in “Yellowstone.” Still, the veteran actor has been in several films, including the Academy Award-winning “Good Will Hunting,” starring Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. He also starred in the 1993 Indie cult classic “Dazed and Confused,” among many other film projects.

The actor also recently joined Authentic Brands Group as the face of two lifestyle brands, Frye and Lucky Brand, the company announced late last year.

“Yellowstone” fans can expect to watch Mr. Hauser when he returns to his role in the second half of season five, the final installment of the series, which is scheduled to premiere later this year, according to TV Guide.