‘Lioness’ Star Zoe Saldaña Explains Why She’s Not Ready for Another Taylor Sheridan Show

Taylor Sheridan’s television universe has become a popular destination for A-list talent, with actors frequently transitioning between his various Paramount+ dramas after proving themselves in one. This trend has turned into an unofficial rite of passage for those fortunate enough to secure a role in his realm.

This phenomenon has made ‘Lioness‘ star Zoe Saldaña one of the more prominent holdouts, especially considering how deeply entrenched she’s become in her own segment of Sheridan’s world. After three seasons portraying CIA operative Joe McNamara, she has established a role that leaves little room for exploring other opportunities.

This is precisely why Saldaña states she isn’t ready to take on another Sheridan series anytime soon. “I think that Joe McNamara and ‘Lioness’ is all that I can handle at this time,” the actress shared with PEOPLE when asked about the possibility of crossing over into one of Sheridan’s other shows.

Her hesitation largely stems from her workload, as Saldaña is not only starring in the Paramount+ spy thriller but also serving as an executive producer. “I’m number one on the call sheet. I am the first one in, last one out,” she explains. “I am prepping months before anybody ever is able to prep. So it’s already a lot of work for me.”

Despite ruling out a crossover for now, Saldaña had nothing but admiration for Sheridan, crediting him for creating complex, boundary-pushing characters and remaining deeply invested in his actors’ performances. She suggested that their working relationship has given Sheridan a clear understanding of what she contributes to a project.

“The good takeaway that I’m grateful for is that he knows that I’m reliable, just like Joe is,” she says, adding that Sheridan sees her as honest, tough, and vocal. “I have my views, and I come with all heart, all brains, all muscle at all times,” she concludes, stating, “So, no, I think I’m good here at ‘Lioness.’”

Such loyalty stands out in a franchise where crossovers have become increasingly common. Saldaña’s ‘Lioness’ co-star Michael Kelly has already ventured further into Sheridan’s broader television universe, illustrating how normalized these transitions have become among the ensemble casts of his shows.

Saldaña’s remarks also highlight uncertainty surrounding ‘Lioness’ itself, as she admits she isn’t sure if a fourth season is on the horizon. Nonetheless, she expressed pride in how demanding and transformative Joe’s storyline became throughout the show’s third season, suggesting she is satisfied with where the character has landed, regardless of what lies ahead.

This blend of pride and uncertainty reflects Saldaña’s current stance in her ‘Lioness’ journey, fully dedicated to the role she has developed without any immediate desire to expand her presence in Sheridan’s catalog. Given the significant effort she has invested in producing and starring in the series simultaneously, her position is understandable for an actress already managing one of television’s most challenging roles.

For now, fans eager to see Saldaña appear in another part of Sheridan’s ever-expanding lineup will need to be patient, as she appears firmly focused on completing Joe McNamara’s story rather than starting anew elsewhere. Whether this changes in the future likely depends on the direction ‘Lioness’ takes from here.

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