Taylor Sheridan gives actors what Zoe Saldaña says are one of two choices on set.The "Lioness" star offered a rare glimpse into what it's like working with the prolific writer, director and producer, saying his standards challenge every actor who steps onto one of his sets."So working with him is a challenge in the sense that he does raise the bar," Saldaña told People magazine."And you have one of two choices.
You either accept the challenge and make sure that you don't f--- up...or you quit.""And I like being challenged," she added.
"I really do."ZOE SALDAÑA SAYS TAYLOR SHERIDAN 'REALLY SEES WOMEN' AS LIONESS SEASON THREE HITS PARAMOUNT+Zoe Saldaña as Joe in Lioness season 3, streaming on Paramount+, 2026.(Lauren Smith/Paramount+)Saldaña's comments come as Sheridan continues to build one of television's biggest entertainment empires with hit series including "Yellowstone," "Lioness," "Landman," "Tulsa King," "Mayor of Kingstown" and the "Yellowstone" prequels.
His challenging scripts and hands-on approach have earned him a reputation for pushing actors to elevate their performances.For Saldaña, who stars as CIA operative Joe McNamara in Paramount+'s "Lioness," those expectations begin long before cameras start rolling.TAYLOR SHERIDAN'S 'LIONESS' SEASON 3 IS AN ACTION-PACKED SAGA LOADED WITH VIOLENCE AND CARNAGESpeaking recently with USA TODAY, the Oscar-winning actress recalled Sheridan personally calling her ahead of season three to prepare her for the physically demanding role."He said, 'I definitely want you to build more muscle.I want Joe to be just a machine,'" Saldaña told the outlet.The actress said she immediately hired a private trainer to help transform into the battle-hardened CIA operative before filming began.Sheridan's presence on set can also be intimidating.Zoe Saldaña opened up about working with Taylor Sheridan, saying the "Lioness" creator challenges actors while remaining collaborative on set.
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