Kurt Russell has spoken out in defense of Taylor Sheridan amid disputes over the portrayal of women in Sheridan’s projects. The actor, currently starring in Sheridan’s new Western series The Madison, emphasized that the show takes a noticeably female-gaze approach, contrasting with previous criticisms of Sheridan’s work. His comments, shared in a recent interview, highlight the fresh direction Sheridan has taken in this latest family drama.
A Shift Toward Female Perspectives in New Series
The Madison is a contemporary spin-off from Sheridan’s acclaimed series Yellowstone. It explores the story of the Clyburn family, who relocate from New York City to Montana following a devastating loss. Russell praised the writing and cast, including Michelle Pfeiffer, Elle Chapman, Beau Garrett, Matthew Fox, Patrick J. Adams, and Will Arnett, noting the show’s distinct perspective.
I think that it’s a very different show for Taylor in that it’s a very female-gaze-oriented show. And I think it’s extremely well written, it was fun to play. It was really fun to do. I just had a good time,
Russell, 74, told Entertainment Weekly.
The actor further expressed admiration for the script and performances, particularly singling out Pfeiffer’s role.
He’s a really good writer — Taylor’s excellent, and Michelle’s great, and she’s really great in this show. Talking about awards — I think they’re going to be looking Michelle’s way.
Past Accusations Surrounding Female Portrayals in Sheridan’s Work
Despite Russell’s praise, Taylor Sheridan’s body of work has faced frequent criticism regarding its depiction of women. Shows like Yellowstone and its prequels 1883 and 1923, as well as Mayor of Kingstown and Landman, have been scrutinized for leaning heavily on stereotypical and sexualized portrayals. Critics argue that female characters are often reduced to over-sexualized, one-dimensional roles that support predominantly male narratives.
Entertainment Weekly’s review of Landman bluntly stated,
Man, does this new Taylor Sheridan drama hate women.
Similarly, Salon culture editor Kelly McClure remarked,
As a general rule, if there’s a woman on screen during Yellowstone, she’s either fighting, f***ing, crying, or yelling. I guess that’s the cowboy way?
Social media platforms like Reddit have amplified these grievances, with one widely shared post declaring,
I’m convinced Taylor Sheridan doesn’t like women.
Sheridan also attracted backlash for casting supermodel Bella Hadid in a controversial role as the girlfriend of a minor character during a 2024 episode of Yellowstone.
Responses from Actors on Female Character Sexualization
Actors involved in Sheridan’s projects have addressed these concerns, offering their perspectives on the depiction of female characters. Ali Larter, who stars in Landman, told The Hollywood Reporter that she never felt pressured to act outside her comfort zone and emphasized the freedom to portray sexuality without shame.
Nobody’s putting me in a position that I’m not comfortable being in. I have two children. I’ve been married for 19 years. I love playing this character. If there was something I was uncomfortable with, I wouldn’t do it. What’s more uncomfortable is that people are so uncomfortable by their sexuality.
She also stated,
women in their prime, that were still allowed to be alive.
Additionally, Kelly Reilly, known for her role in Sheridan’s works, defended her character’s complexity, arguing that criticism often stems from discomfort with strong, imperfect female figures.
because she is unapologetic, out there, flawed, damaged and brave,
Reilly said, adding,
Women are always asked to play strong role model types, while men can play the gnarliest characters and get away with it.
Upcoming Premiere and Sheridan’s Future Projects
The Madison is set to debut on March 14 on Paramount, marking the final project Sheridan will complete under his current contract with the media company. After this, he is scheduled to transition to NBCUniversal in 2029, signaling potential new directions for his work and storytelling approach moving forward.
I’m convinced Taylor Sheridan doesn’t like women
byu/crunknizzle inLandmanSeries
