‘Yellowstone’ Creator Taylor Sheridan Critiques Studio Executives and Marvel in Interview
Taylor Sheridan has emerged as one of television’s most influential creators, yet he claims he has never been concerned with adhering to Hollywood’s conventions or pursuing accolades. In a recent appearance on The Bill Simmons Podcast, the creator of ‘Yellowstone’ shared insights into his storytelling philosophy while taking aim at studio executives, Marvel films, and TV critics.
Sheridan joined the podcast to promote his new book, How Not to Die in Prison, co-written with Tom Nelson. During their discussion, he elaborated on how he built his television career by steering clear of trends and concentrating on authentic storytelling.
The mind behind shows like ‘Yellowstone’, ‘Landman’, and ‘The Madison’ expressed his desire to move away from what he perceives as a prevalent issue in Hollywood: the reliance on shortcuts rather than robust storytelling.
“I knew when I started writing [I wanted] to simply not do what everyone else was doing,” Sheridan stated on the podcast. “What everyone else was doing was taking shortcuts, essentially breaking all the very basic fundamental rules of storytelling, because they couldn’t figure out their story.”
He emphasized that visuals should drive the narrative, while dialogue should unveil emotions and motivations instead of merely explaining the plot.
Sheridan also addressed the criticism surrounding his Paramount+ series ‘Landman’, particularly regarding Demi Moore’s character. He acknowledged that some viewers and critics might question the limited role of Moore’s character initially, but he felt the story required time to unfold.
“The critics are going to come after me. I’m underutilizing [Moore], can’t write for women, all this nonsense. Then I’m going to kill your husband and you’re going to have to run the oil company,” Sheridan remarked.
He further noted that he doesn’t dwell on negative feedback from critics. “I don’t care what they think, and it annoys the shit out of them that I don’t care,” he added.
During the interview, Sheridan also criticized Marvel movies, citing them as an example of a broader issue in contemporary Hollywood storytelling. He contended that some superhero films overly depend on characters to convey information rather than allowing the visuals and action to narrate the story.
According to Sheridan, many films include excessive explanations that viewers must grasp before the narrative can progress.
He also expressed strong opinions about studio and network executives, asserting that many lack sufficient storytelling experience yet still wield significant influence over creative decisions. “What do you know about developing story? You know nothing,” Sheridan said, critiquing executives who determine which projects advance.
He argued that writers and directors once enjoyed greater creative freedom, but the industry has shifted, granting executives more control over scripts, characters, and production choices.
Sheridan explained that he sidestepped such interference when negotiating his deal with Paramount. He emphasized his desire for the freedom to create shows based on his instincts rather than appeasing committees or chasing awards.
“You’re not going to win no Emmys with me, but I’m not trying to win Emmys. That’s not my goal,” he stated. “My goal is to sit somebody on their couch and move them, make them think, make them laugh, scare the shit out of them, excite them.”
Sheridan also touched on his relationship with Los Angeles, stating he has no intention of returning to the city, criticizing what he perceives as the current state of Hollywood.
Despite his critiques of the industry, Sheridan continues to broaden his television empire, with numerous shows linked to his name and several new projects underway.
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