Stepping into the boots of a cowboy alongside a country music icon wasn't what Eric Nelsen envisioned, but that's precisely what happened when he joined the cast of "1883." This "Yellowstone" prequel, featuring Tim McGraw and Faith Hill as James and Margaret Dutton, follows their arduous journey across the Great Plains to Montana. Nelsen portrays Ennis, a young cowboy captivated by the Dutton's daughter, Elsa.

Nelsen recounted McGraw's playful on-set dynamic, noting the country star's tendency to keep him on his toes, maintaining a sense of character friction even amidst friendly interactions. McGraw's daughters were frequent visitors on set, but Nelsen observed a unique bond developing between them.

Series creator Taylor Sheridan, who also owns a Texas cattle ranch, tapped McGraw for the role after a "Yellowstone" flashback scene. The resulting standalone series, "1883," premiered in 2021. While McGraw often acted like a supportive colleague, he also maintained the authoritative presence of his character, adding another layer to their on-set relationship.

LaMonica Garrett, who plays Thomas, Shea's (Sam Elliott) right-hand man, spoke about his initial apprehension about working with a seasoned Western actor like Elliott. However, Elliott's warmth and approachability quickly dispelled any concerns. Garrett emphasized the immediate camaraderie they developed, which translated seamlessly onto the screen.

Both Nelsen and Garrett highlighted the rigorous cowboy camp they underwent to prepare for their roles. This immersive training involved honing skills like horseback riding, cattle cutting, roping, and gun shooting. Nelsen explained how this preparation allowed them to be fully present in their scenes, embodying the cowboy spirit authentically.

Garrett added that the cowboy camp fostered a strong bond among the cast, creating a sense of unity that permeated the filming process. He humorously described the initial challenges of learning to ride, contrasting his experience with those who had grown up with horses.

Sheridan's authentic portrayal of the American West stems from his personal experience growing up in rural Texas. Garrett emphasized Sheridan's deep understanding of the culture and the importance of authenticity in storytelling.

Nelsen reflected on the empowering experience of working on "1883," emphasizing the realization that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.