Cole Hauser on Navigating the Creation of Dutton Ranch Without Taylor Sheridan The launch of Dutton Ranch, the highly anticipated sequel spinoff of Yellowstone, marked a significant shift in the creative process for the series. Unlike Taylor Sheridan’s previous projects, which often saw the writer-director deeply involved in every aspect of production, Sheridan took a more hands-off approach for this new series. Starring Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly, Dutton Ranch faced unique challenges as it sought to uphold the legacy of its predecessor while carving out its own identity. Sheridan’s reduced role was evident from the outset. While he served as an executive producer, the bulk of the creative work fell to director Christina Alexandra Voros, the returning cast members, and a new writers’ room. This change was further complicated by the departure of showrunner Chad Feehan, who left the project amid reported creative disagreements on set. Hauser, who portrays Rip Wheeler, described the transition as a significant hurdle. “Not having Taylor there… Everything had changed,” he told filminsidenyc. “The only normality that we had whatsoever was Carter, Christina, Kelly and myself.” Despite these challenges, the cast and crew worked tirelessly to ensure the series met the high standards set by Yellowstone. Hauser emphasized the difficulty of balancing the weight of expectations with the need to focus on storytelling. “We worked our asses off this year—and I don't think a lot of the outside noise or the thought of, like, ‘What's the weight of the show?’ was really apparent to me at the time,” he said. “We had to figure out on our feet how to really perform and tell a story.” The effort paid off in terms of viewership. Dutton Ranch debuted to an impressive 12.#paramount #taylor_sheridan #cole_hauser #christina_Alexandra_Voros #emmys

‘Yellowstone’ Creator Taylor Sheridan Unloads on Critics in Profane Rant Taylor Sheridan, the co-creator of the neo-Western television drama Yellowstone, delivered a fiery interview on The Bill Simmons Podcast, where he openly criticized critics and studio executives for their influence on his creative process. The 56-year-old writer, who recently moved from Paramount to NBC Universal, admitted he has no intention of seeking approval from critics when crafting storylines for his shows or their spin-offs. Sheridan’s remarks, filled with profanity and sharp wit, highlighted his frustration with the entertainment industry’s reliance on external validation and its impact on storytelling. Sheridan referenced his work on Landman, a Paramount+ show starring Demi Moore, where he intentionally kept Moore’s character in the background during the first season. He anticipated criticism for this choice, joking that critics would accuse him of “underutilizing” Moore and failing to write for women. “The critics are going to come after me: ‘I’m underutilizing [Moore], can’t write for women’—all this nonsense,” he said. He then mocked critics by referencing a plot point involving a character’s husband being killed, suggesting their complaints would be rendered moot by the show’s narrative. “I don’t care what they think and it annoys the s--t out of them that I don’t care,” he declared. Sheridan’s frustration extended to his departure from Paramount, which he attributed to his refusal to make his shows “overtly political.” He criticized studio executives for micromanaging creative projects, forcing endless rewrites, and prioritizing tone and mood over storytelling. “It didn’t used to be this way when Steve McQueen was a movie star at Paramount and Bobby Evans ran the studio,” he said. “Writers were turned loose.#paramount #taylor_sheridan #dem_i_moore #the_bill_simmons_podcast #nbc_universal

Taylor Sheridan’s ‘Yellowstone’ Spin-Off Confirms Rip Replacement — Here’s Who’s Taking Over Cole Hauser’s Role Taylor Sheridan’s “Dutton Ranch” spin-off is reshaping one of the most recognizable roles from the “Yellowstone” universe: Rip Wheeler, played by Cole Hauser. Instead of replacing Rip with a single new character, the series has split his former responsibilities between two different people. Rip Wheeler has always been central to “Yellowstone.” He is known as John Dutton’s trusted enforcer, ranch foreman, and son-in-law, someone who handles violent problems quietly and efficiently. His position also made him somewhat untouchable within the story, operating outside normal systems and authority. Because of that, the idea of replacing him was always going to be difficult. In “Dutton Ranch,” that role does not go to one person. Instead, it is divided between Azul, played by J.R. Villarreal, and Chet, played by Hart Denton. The show positions them as two separate versions of what Rip once represented, rather than a direct replacement. Azul takes on the more traditional ranch-hand duties. He is shown as someone who understands day-to-day ranch work and the physical demands of life on the land. Chet, on the other hand, brings a more dangerous edge. He is described as someone who is not afraid to cross lines when necessary and is more comfortable with the darker side of ranch life. Rip himself is still part of the story, but his role has changed. He is now the head of the 10-Petal ranch operation, while Azul and Zachariah, played by Marc Menchaca, manage the Dutton Ranch. Zachariah is introduced as someone with a hardened past and experience that makes him capable of operating in morally grey situations, similar to characters seen throughout Sheridan’s universe.#taylor_sheridan #paramount_network #cole_hauser #j_r_villarreal #hart_denton

Frisco King Filming Closures and Production Details Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. announced that streets in the downtown area will be closed for filming as Taylor Sheridan’s Frisco King begins production. The closures will occur on the 100 block of East Fourth Street, adjacent to Sundance Square, from 7 a.m. on Friday, May 23, to 4 a.m. on Saturday. Additional street closures for equipment and vehicle parking are scheduled for Thursday and Friday at specific locations, including Fourth Street between Commerce and Houston streets, and Main Street from 505 Main St. to Fourth Street. The filming permit, submitted to the city on May 12, specifies that the production will take place at 149 E. Fourth St., a location tied to the historic Land Title building. Constructed in 1889, the building originally housed the Land Mortgage Bank and was recognized with a Texas historical marker in 1979. This site will serve as a key location for the series, which is set in North Texas. The Paramount+ series, previously titled NOLA King, began production in Cowtown (Fort Worth) in late March. Originally planned as a New Orleans-based project, the show has shifted its production to North Texas, with filming locations spanning Fort Worth, Plano, Dallas, Frisco, Keller, Denton, and Southlake through July. The change reflects a broader trend of major productions relocating to the region, leveraging its diverse landscapes and infrastructure. Frisco King stars Samuel L. Jackson as Russell Lee Washington Jr., a hitman who interacts with Sylvester Stallone’s character, Dwight Manfredi, from the Tulsa King series. Jackson’s role mirrors the “fish out of water” premise of Tulsa King, where Stallone’s New York-based character adapts to life in Oklahoma.#paramount_plus #taylor_sheridan #downtown_fort_worth_inc #frisco_king #land_title_building

Christina Alexandra Voros: From New York to the Western Frontier Christina Alexandra Voros couldn’t believe it when Taylor Sheridan, the acclaimed TV creator behind Yellowstone and Landman, praised her work at the premiere of The Madison in March. Sitting in the crowd at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, Voros was called out by Sheridan, who declared, “Christina Voros directed every episode of [this] show. I think you’ll see that she exceeded even my wildest expectations.” The moment marked a rare public appearance by Sheridan, who rarely steps into the spotlight. His praise, however, carried significant weight, as Voros noted that Sheridan isn’t typically one for overt compliments. Voros’s journey with Sheridan began in 2018 as a camera operator on the first season of Yellowstone. Over time, she transitioned into directing, including a pivotal episode for Beth Dutton, played by Kelly Reilly. Her work on The Madison and Dutton Ranch—a Yellowstone spinoff—has solidified her role as a key figure in Sheridan’s creative universe. The latter series, which follows Beth Dutton and her husband Rip as they move to Texas, marks a major return to the Dutton universe for fans. It also introduces acting legends Annette Bening and Ed Harris, expanding the saga’s legacy. Sheridan’s endorsement of Voros’s talent has been instrumental in her rise. He described her as someone who “understands my voice” and emphasized the importance of trusting such talent. Voros, in turn, credits Sheridan’s loyalty and exacting standards as a driving force in her growth. “He’s incredibly demanding,” she says, “but that’s what makes the work so rewarding.” Her unique approach to filmmaking—favoring long-distance shots that capitalize on Montana’s vast landscapes—has become a signature style in the Sheridan-verse.#taylor_sheridan #jazz_at_lincoln_center #the_madison #dutton_ranch #christina_alexandra_voros

Award Winning Filmmaker To Make Alamo Movie Academy Award nominee Taylor Sheridan has confirmed his involvement in producing a film centered on the historical events of The Alamo. The project, which Sheridan describes as a tribute to "the brave men and women who sacrifice their lives," will be presented in a new 4-D theater as part of an extensive restoration initiative. The film is set to debut at this state-of-the-art facility, which is being developed alongside the ongoing revitalization of the Alamo site. The Alamo Visitor Center and Museum, a key component of the restoration effort, is anticipated to open to the public in the coming year, marking a significant milestone in preserving the historical legacy of the site. Sheridan, known for his work on critically acclaimed films such as Wind River and Hell or High Water, has expressed his commitment to honoring the sacrifices made during the 1836 battle. The film’s narrative will focus on the individuals who defended the Alamo, emphasizing their courage and the broader implications of their actions. The 4-D theater, which will feature immersive technology to enhance the viewing experience, is designed to complement the museum’s educational programs and attract both local and international visitors. The restoration project, which includes the reconstruction of key historical structures and the integration of modern amenities, has been a collaborative effort involving historians, architects, and community stakeholders. The Alamo Visitor Center and Museum will serve as a hub for historical research, educational workshops, and cultural events, further solidifying the site’s role as a vital part of Texas history.#taylor_sheridan #alamo_visitor_center #alamo #alamo_museum #4_d_theater
Yellowstone Creator Tapped to Direct Alamo Movie Taylor Sheridan, the acclaimed screenwriter and director behind the hit TV series Yellowstone, has been announced as the producer and director of a new film about the Battle of the Alamo. The project, set to debut at the Alamo Visitor Center and Museum, marks a significant milestone in Texas history and storytelling, with Sheridan emphasizing his deep connection to the state’s cultural legacy. The announcement was made by Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who praised Sheridan’s ability to capture the essence of the American West through his work. The film will be screened in a 4-D theater at the Alamo Visitors Center, which is scheduled to open in spring 2028. The immersive experience will feature advanced visual effects, sound, and physical elements to bring the 1836 battle to life. The story will recount the 13-day siege led by Texian defenders William B. Travis and James Bowie, who held off a much larger Mexican force before being overwhelmed on March 6. The film aims to educate visitors about the historical significance of the battle, which remains a defining moment in Texas history. Sheridan, who grew up in Fort Worth, has long been associated with Texas narratives. His previous works, including the film Hell or High Water and the TV series Landman, have explored themes of land, identity, and conflict in the American West. The Yellowstone series, which ran for five seasons on the Paramount Network, has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning spin-offs like 1883, 1923, and the upcoming Dutton Ranch. Some scenes from 1923 were filmed in San Antonio, highlighting the region’s role in modern Western storytelling. Patrick’s endorsement of Sheridan underscores the filmmaker’s reputation for authenticity.#taylor_sheridan #dan_patrick #alamo_battle #alamo_visitor_center #ross_perot_jr
Michelle Pfeiffer Yells at Will Arnett in Fiery Therapy Scene from “The Madison” (Exclusive) Michelle Pfeiffer and Will Arnett star in a sneak peek of The Madison, showcasing Pfeiffer’s character, Stacy Clyburn, in a tense therapy session. The clip, exclusive to People, features Clyburn confronting her therapist, played by Arnett, over her "hostile" and "mistrusting" behavior. In the fifth episode of the series, Clyburn, a grieving widow who moved from New York to Montana, questions the therapist’s approach. Arnett’s character, Phil Yorn, challenges Clyburn’s reluctance to trust his interpretation of her emotions. Clyburn responds with raw vulnerability, recounting the loss of her husband and the emotional turmoil she faces. She bluntly expresses her pain, even joking about the desire to "claw my eyes out with a f---ing spoon" to escape her suffering. The scene highlights the show’s focus on grief and emotional resilience, as Clyburn seeks guidance from her therapist amid her personal struggles. The Madison, created by Yellowstone writer Taylor Sheridan, follows the Clyburn family as they navigate life in the Madison River valley of Montana. The series, which premiered on March 14, stars Kurt Russell, Patrick J. Adams, Matthew Fox, and Pfeiffer. Sheridan’s approach to casting was unconventional, as Pfeiffer revealed she signed on without reading the script. She described the process as a back-and-forth negotiation with Sheridan, who preferred to cast actors before writing the full script. The final three episodes of the series will debut on Paramount+ on March 21. Pfeiffer’s portrayal of Clyburn, a character defined by her grief and determination, has been central to the show’s emotional core. The therapy scene underscores the series’ exploration of healing and the complexities of moving forward after loss.#paramount #taylor_sheridan #the_madison #michelle_pfeiffer #will_arnett

Landman Season 3 Set for 2026 Release, Billy Bob Thornton Confirmed to Return Landman season 3 is set to premiere on Paramount+ later in 2026, with Billy Bob Thornton rejoining the cast as Tommy Norris. Despite earlier rumors suggesting his departure, Thornton has confirmed his return, dismissing the speculation as “stupid AI thing” and “AI-generated crap.” The oil industry drama faces production delays but promises new storylines and character developments. The third season will follow Tommy Norris as he builds his own CTT Oil company after being ousted from M-Tex in the previous season. Filming is scheduled to begin in April or May 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas, with the series expected to debut on Paramount+ in November 2026, aligning with its annual release pattern. The show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan, continues to shape the narrative around the gritty realities of the Texas oil patch, balancing corporate struggles with personal stakes. Thornton’s return solidifies his role as the show’s anchor, having commanded $1 million per episode in Season 2. His commitment to the series is underscored by his signed contracts for multiple seasons, ensuring his presence for the show’s continuation. The ensemble cast includes Demi Moore, Ali Larter, Sam Elliott, Michelle Randolph, Jacob Lofland, Paulina Chevez, and Andy Garcia. Recent reports indicate Blair Underwood has joined the cast for a significant role, adding new dynamics to the storyline. Season 3 will feature 10 episodes, with the plot focusing on Tommy’s efforts to rebuild his empire from scratch. Michelle Randolph, who plays Ainsley Norris, hinted at her character’s potential exploration of college life and independence, while the show promises to delve deeper into the challenges of business decisions and personal relationships.#paramount_plus #taylor_sheridan #billy_bob_thornton #fort_worth_texas #tommy_norris
Michelle Randolph Discusses Ainsley's Evolution in Landman Season 3 Michelle Randolph, 28, has shared insights about her character Ainsley Norris’s journey in the upcoming third season of Landman, highlighting the character’s growth beyond her family dynamics. Playing Ainsley, the daughter of Billy Bob Thornton’s Tommy, Randolph emphasized the shift in her character’s development as she transitions from a sheltered environment to a new phase in her life. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Randolph described her anticipation for seeing Ainsley’s transformation as she navigates college life and interacts with peers outside her comfort zone. “We know who Ainsley is when she’s around her family and comfortable,” she said. “I’m looking forward to discovering who she becomes when she’s in college, surrounded by her peers, and out of her comfort zone.” She noted that glimpses of this evolution were already present in season two, particularly toward its conclusion. Randolph expressed excitement about the opportunity to grow alongside the character, reflecting on how the show allows viewers to witness Ainsley at different stages of her life. “It’s cool to see a character evolve, especially on TV, because you get to meet them at various points in their journey,” she explained. “I’m learning who Ainsley is as she’s learning who she is. That makes me eager to return to the series.” The actress also shared her perspective on the show’s future direction, acknowledging Taylor Sheridan’s creative vision while expressing confidence in the series’ trajectory. “I have so many ideas, but I trust Taylor’s vision for the story,” she said. “This will be my fifth season working with him, and I’ve learned to trust his approach without expecting specific outcomes.#michelle_randolph #ainsley_norris #landman #taylor_sheridan #scream_7

Michelle Randolph's breakthrough role came in a Taylor Sheridan series before her starring part in "Landman" Michelle Randolph's rise to prominence in the entertainment industry began with her role as Elizabeth Strafford on Taylor Sheridan's "1923," a prequel to the "Yellowstone" universe. The series, which premiered in 2022 and concluded in 2025, followed the story of Jacob Dutton, portrayed by Harrison Ford, as he navigated the challenges of protecting his Montana ranch. Randolph's character, Elizabeth, faced numerous hardships, including a miscarriage, a cougar attack, and the loss of her husband. These intense experiences allowed Randolph to showcase her range as an actress, transitioning from the more lighthearted role of Ainsley Norris in "Landman" to the emotionally complex Elizabeth Strafford. Her performance in "1923" marked a significant turning point in her career, propelling her from an unknown actor to a rising star. Prior to joining the "Yellowstone" spin-off, Randolph had worked as a model and appeared in a few TV movies and a low-profile horror film titled "The Resort." The role of Elizabeth Strafford provided her with the opportunity to fully immerse herself in a character that demanded both strength and vulnerability, solidifying her place in the industry. Randolph's continued collaboration with Taylor Sheridan led to her casting as Ainsley Norris in "Landman," a series that has become one of Sheridan's most acclaimed projects. Ainsley, the daughter of Billy Bob Thornton's Tommy Norris, is a character defined by her bubbly personality and occasional moments of emotional depth.#michelle_randolph #landman #taylor_sheridan #1923 #harrison_ford

Michelle Randolph Reveals Exciting Details About Ainsley's Journey in Landman Season 3 Michelle Randolph, 28, has shared insights about her character Ainsley Norris on the hit series Landman, focusing on her evolution in the upcoming third season. The actress discussed how Ainsley’s journey will shift as she transitions from her sheltered upbringing to navigating college life and stepping out of her comfort zone. “We know who Ainsley is when she is around her family and comfortable,” Randolph told The Hollywood Reporter. “I’m looking forward to seeing and discovering who she is when she goes to college and she’s around her peers and out of her comfort zone.” She noted that glimpses of this transformation were already visible in season two, toward its conclusion. Randolph emphasized her excitement about the character’s growth, highlighting the unique opportunity of developing a TV character over multiple seasons. “What’s cool about growing with a character is, especially on a TV show, you get to meet them at different points in their life. I’m learning who Ainsley is as she’s learning who she is. That makes me excited to get back.” The actress also expressed her confidence in creator Taylor Sheridan’s vision for the series, stating, “I have so many ideas. I think we all do, but I really trust Taylor’s vision for the story. This will be going into my fifth season of television with him, and I have learned to trust him and have no expectations for what I think should happen.” While Billy Bob Thornton’s portrayal of Tommy dominates the show, Randolph acknowledged the contributions of the supporting cast, including her own role as Ainsley Norris. The character’s last name, Norris, is a nod to Thornton’s Tommy, making Ainsley his daughter.#michelle_randolph #ainsley_norris #landman #taylor_sheridan #scream_7
