Taylor Sheridan has created an impactful world in film and television, especially known for his gritty, Western-style stories. Though Yellowstone remains his most famous work, not all of Sheridan’s projects connect to it. So, what’s in the Yellowstone universe, and what projects stand apart?
Taylor Sheridan is a talented writer, director, and showrunner, making a name for himself through powerful modern Western and action-filled dramas. His work explores deep, often gritty themes that focus on survival, family, and conflict.
With works that range from crime dramas to intense Westerns, Sheridan has become a leading name in TV and film. His ability to create complex, engaging stories has made him an influential figure in entertainment.
What is the Sheridanverse?
The Sheridanverse is Sheridan’s shared TV universe. It includes Yellowstone and other shows connected to it, telling the ongoing saga of the Dutton family, who run a large ranch in Montana.
Yellowstone serves as the heart of this universe, with its story revolving around the Dutton family’s struggles to maintain control of their land. Yellowstone debuted as an instant hit, combining intense family drama with the unique landscape of the American West. Its success established Sheridan as a major force in TV.
The series follows John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner, who faces threats from developers, rivals, and even his family. The show’s themes of power, family loyalty, and legacy make it incredibly popular. Sheridan expanded the Yellowstone story with prequels that explore the Dutton family’s early history.
1883 tells the story of how the Duttons traveled from Texas to Montana. Set right after the Civil War, this series delves into the challenges they faced on their journey to establish a home. This prequel picks up with the Dutton family in 1923 as they navigate new struggles during the Great Depression and Prohibition era. It provides a historical look at the family’s endurance through tough times.
Sheridan is expanding the Yellowstone universe with more spinoffs. This series will explore life on the famous Four Sixes Ranch in Texas. It’s expected to delve into the culture and challenges of ranching in Texas. Set to star Matthew McConaughey, 2024 will introduce new Dutton family members and is likely to expand the family’s story into new territories.
Sheridan’s work outside the Yellowstone universe
Not all of Sheridan’s shows connect to Yellowstone. Some of his best work stands alone with unique themes and characters. Starring Jeremy Renner, Mayor of Kingstown follows the McLusky family in a crime-ridden town. The series dives into issues like corruption, racism, and inequality, separate from the Yellowstone universe.
Then there's Tulsa King, featuring Sylvester Stallone, which tells the story of Dwight “The General” Manfredi, a New York mobster exiled to Oklahoma. Though it has Western themes, it’s not part of Yellowstone.
In Special Ops: Lioness, CIA operative Joe, played by Zoe Saldana, works to counter terrorism. This action-packed series isn’t linked to Yellowstone, resembling Sheridan’s earlier film Sicario instead.
Originally thought to connect to Yellowstone, Lawmen: Bass Reeves tells the true story of one of the first Black U.S. Marshals. It’s now a standalone series, exploring themes of justice in the Old West. Though Lawmen doesn’t officially connect to Yellowstone, its historical setting and themes make it a natural fit for potential crossovers.
Sheridan’s upcoming series Land Man focuses on the competitive oil industry in Texas, starring Billy Bob Thornton. While not confirmed as part of Yellowstone, its Texas setting offers potential for connections. Aside from writing and directing, Sheridan has appeared in several shows.
He played Travis Wheatley in Yellowstone and made cameos in 1883, alongside past roles in shows like Sons of Anarchy.
Taylor Sheridan has built a powerful TV universe with Yellowstone at its center, while his other shows explore different worlds and stories. With upcoming projects and spinoffs, fans have plenty to look forward to, both within and outside of the Sheridanverse.
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