Risk to Taylor Sheridan Shows Amid Paramount’s Major Streaming Restructuring Plans

The future of Taylor Sheridan’s burgeoning television universe appeared promising, yet recent developments at Paramount Plus could pose challenges to his ongoing projects.

The end of 2024 proved to be an exhilarating period for fans of Sheridan. With the much-anticipated return of Lioness Season 2 and Yellowstone gracing our screens, the series Landman emerged as a surprise blockbuster, even surpassing high-profile competitors like Squid Game Season 2 in streaming popularity.

Over the years, Sheridan has been prolific in crafting a diverse array of seven series for Paramount, including Yellowstone, 1883, 1923, Tulsa King, Mayor of Kingstown, Lioness, and Landman. However, this remarkable success comes with a significant financial burden, reportedly costing $500 million annually.

Potential Budget Reductions for Sheridan

A recent report from Puck suggests that the merger between Paramount and Skydance Media could substantially alter the landscape for Sheridan’s future productions. David Ellison, alongside new streaming executive Cindy Holland, is said to be considering a budget cap of approximately $9 million per episode for new series.

This proposed budget cut raises concerns for Sheridan, as his productions typically range from $12 to $16 million per episode. For context, the inaugural season of 1923, which consisted of eight episodes, allegedly had a staggering production cost of around $200 million, categorizing it among the most expensive television shows ever produced.

Helen Mirren as Cara Dutton in 1923 Season 2 — Paramount

The substantial budgets associated with Sheridan’s projects can be attributed to their star-studded casts, often featuring A-list celebrities like Harrison Ford, Sylvester Stallone, and Billy Bob Thornton. Furthermore, Sheridan prefers to film in exquisite locations such as Montana, steering clear of cheaper filming alternatives in other areas or countries.

Landman review: Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris standing by an oil rig — Paramount

Sheridan’s current contract with Paramount is reported to be secure for another two years, during which the Yellowstone creator has an exciting slate of projects in development. This includes Landman Season 2, 1944, The Madison, and a prospective spinoff centered around characters Beth and Rip.

The same report indicates that Sheridan is dissatisfied with the impending budget cuts and may contemplate shifting his creative endeavors to another network should the renegotiation discussions fall short.

For fans looking to engage with Sheridan’s work, we invite you to explore the top shows you must watch if you’re a Taylor Sheridan enthusiast. Additionally, stay updated on scheduling for upcoming episodes of 1923 and discover what other captivating TV series are debuting this month.

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