The merger between Paramount Global and Skydance, announced in August 2025, promised vast resources to fuel Taylor Sheridan’s creative projects. Yet, this high-profile union has instead ushered in an unsettling period for Sheridan, whose critically acclaimed work faces growing uncertainty as he prepares to depart Paramount upon the expiration of his contract in 2028. The fallout has raised serious questions over the future of several Sheridan-led series, notably within the expansive Yellowstone universe.
Reports Indicate Disputes Emerge Between Sheridan and New Management
Despite initial enthusiasm from Paramount’s new leadership, led by David Ellison, who publicly praised Sheridan’s contributions, tensions quickly surfaced. Sources reveal confrontations concerning budget overruns and project prioritization, causing a sharp turn in how Sheridan’s portfolio is being managed. Paramount Skydance’s decision to scrap the upcoming war drama The Correspondent, originally slated for 2027, marked an early sign of this shift. Further, Sheridan’s script for the Capture the Flag feature film was reportedly rejected, signaling a deeper clampdown on his creative ambitions.
Multiple Yellowstone Spinoffs and Projects Placed on Hold or Canceled
The lucrative Yellowstone franchise, Sheridan’s flagship domain, is not immune to these disruptions. The sequel series 6666, intended to continue Jefferson White’s storyline and set on the real-life Four Sixes Ranch owned by Sheridan, remains stalled with no script, cast, or release date in sight. Delays originally attributed to logistical challenges, including filming alongside ranch operations, appear compounded by corporate shifts. With Sheridan and his primary production partner, 101 Studios, poised to move to NBCUniversal in 2029, the show’s continuation at Paramount seems increasingly unlikely.
Similarly, the Yellowstone prequel 1944 remains unfinished, with no production activity since its announcement. Unlike other projects, this prequel lacks Sheridan’s personal stake beyond writing credits, possibly allowing a different creative lead to take over, but uncertainty persists regarding cast retention, including the return of key actors like Brandon Sklenar from the series 1923.
Sheridan’s Close-Knit Creative Approach Could Be Challenged Without Him
Taylor Sheridan is known for his hands-on involvement, often selecting lead actors before scripting and cultivating strong relationships with his ensemble casts, including stars such as Kevin Costner, Kelly Reilly, Sylvester Stallone, Helen Mirren, and Henry Ford. This personal touch has drawn top talent to his shows and contributed materially to their success. The upcoming Yellowstone spinoff Dutton Ranch, currently in production and starring Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly, remains scheduled for a 2026 premiere, though Sheridan’s forthcoming departure raises questions about the series’ long-term trajectory. Similarly, spinoffs Y-Marshals and The Madison, both in early production stages, face uncertain futures.
Non–Yellowstone Productions Also Facing Scheduling Challenges
Outside the Sheridan-verse, other high-profile Sheridan projects are also caught in the uncertainty. The spy thriller Lioness, featuring Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman, was renewed for a third season as of August 2025, but now risks delays. A scheduling conflict arose when Paramount committed to a new Nicole Kidman-led show without Sheridan’s involvement, creating a dilemma reminiscent of a prior conflict involving Kevin Costner. Sheridan, who penned all 16 episodes of Lioness’s first two seasons, has expressed frustration at being sidelined, though no official postponement has been confirmed.
The emerging success of Landman, often heralded as Yellowstone’s spiritual successor and based on the Boomtown podcast rights Sheridan acquired, also faces an uncertain fate. After an impressive first season on Paramount+, starring Billy Bob Thornton, Sheridan retains full creative control, having written all 20 episodes to date. The show’s sustainability may hinge on an expedited renewal greenlight ahead of Sheridan’s contract conclusion in December 2028.
Limited Impact on Some Established Shows Amid Transition
Some properties in Sheridan’s portfolio seem less vulnerable to disruption. Tulsa King, the mafia drama led by Sylvester Stallone with seasons currently airing, has seen creative control transition to Terrence Winter, insulating it from Sheridan’s exit. Its New Orleans-based spinoff, NOLA King, starring Samuel L. Jackson, also appears on track, likely completing its first season before Sheridan leaves. Additionally, Mayor of Kingstown, now in its fourth season, has minimal recent involvement from Sheridan, having last written the second season’s opening episode.
Sheridan’s Role in Paramount’s Growth and the Future of His Franchises
Since Yellowstone’s debut in 2018, Taylor Sheridan has been instrumental in establishing Paramount as a formidable player in television and streaming. The western series achieved a landmark 16 million live viewers across Paramount’s platforms at its height, surpassing records previously held by The Walking Dead. Paramount+ counts a substantial portion of its reported 79 million subscribers as a result of his work.
Though Sheridan’s exit marks the end of his involvement, Paramount retains ownership of the intellectual properties he created, including Yellowstone, Landman, Tulsa King, and others. This means the franchises could continue under new stewardship, pending decisions by the current management. Some executives are reportedly confident they have separated from Sheridan at a high point, maintaining control of his most valuable shows.
Looking Ahead: Sheridan’s New Chapter and Paramount’s Next Era
Taylor Sheridan’s forthcoming move to NBCUniversal, set for January 2029, signals a new phase in his career, with expectations that he will launch fresh projects outside Paramount. Meanwhile, the next three years will be critical for wrapping up ongoing series at Paramount and determining which can persist without his creative leadership. As fans and industry watchers watch closely, Paramount’s handling of this transition may define the future of several major television franchises.
“Paramount+; therefore, it owes a large portion of its 79 million paid subscriber base to Sheridan’s creative genius.” ?Anonymous Industry Analyst
