Michael Kelly, a principal cast member on the Paramount+ drama Lioness, has publicly praised writer and filmmaker Taylor Sheridan, calling him “one of the greatest storytellers.” The comments come as the third season of the CIA/military series is currently on air.
Kelly says he'd join any Sheridan project
Speaking to ScreenRant, Kelly — who plays a major role in Lioness — described Sheridan as a unique creative force in film and television and signalled his eagerness to collaborate again. In the interview he told Sheridan directly that he would take part in any future project the writer-director initiated. The actor also complimented Sheridan’s intelligence and creative vision.
"I've never thought about how the shows could cross over, but I have told Taylor, I'm like, 'Bro, anything you ever want me to do, I'll do. I love being in Texas. I love saying your words.' I think he's truly a standalone talent. There's nobody who's doing or has ever done what he's doing. It's incredible what he does. And he's just one of the smartest dudes you'll ever meet. He's fricking brilliant, man. Brilliant. And just one of the greatest storytellers."
The praise underscores Sheridan’s rising profile as a writer‑creator whose projects attract high‑profile actors and substantial streaming audiences. Kelly’s remarks also reflect the cachet that Sheridan’s shows appear to hold for performers seeking challenging, character‑driven work.
What Sheridan has created
Taylor Sheridan is best known for building what many call the ‘Yellowstone’ universe, and for a string of acclaimed films and series that blend thriller elements with rugged American settings. The interview cited a number of his projects by name, reflecting the range of his work and the calibre of actors he draws.
| Selected Sheridan projects | Notes |
|---|---|
| Yellowstone | Franchise universe; major TV success |
| Sicario | Feature film |
| Wind River | Feature film |
| Landman | Listed among Sheridan's projects in the interview |
The interview also listed several high‑profile actors who have worked with Sheridan, including Kevin Costner, Sam Elliott, Zoe Saldaña, Nicole Kidman, Morgan Freeman, Jeremy Renner and Billy Bob Thornton.
Lioness season 3 and a stacked supporting cast
Lioness, which centres on CIA and military storylines, features an ensemble cast. The reporting referenced appearances by Zoe Saldaña, Nicole Kidman and Morgan Freeman among others, and it specifically named Kelly’s character, Byron Westfield, as one of the major figures in season three.
The series has generated attention for blending espionage drama with interpersonal character work, and Sheridan’s involvement as creator has helped position it as a high‑stakes streaming title.
- Kelly’s endorsement highlights Sheridan’s influence in contemporary US television and film.
- Professional pull: Kelly’s willingness to work repeatedly with Sheridan signals the kind of loyalty creators can build with talent.
- Star power: the roster of actors associated with Sheridan projects reflects why those shows attract industry and audience interest.
For South African viewers who follow international streaming dramas, Sheridan’s work continues to be a touchstone for star‑studded, narrative‑driven television. Kelly’s remarks reinforce the perception of Sheridan as a creator who both attracts top acting talent and shapes projects around distinctive storytelling voices.
As Lioness continues its run on Paramount+, comments like Kelly’s are likely to keep the series in conversation among viewers and industry observers who track major creative collaborations and the careers they help define.
