In the world of television, it’s not unusual for creators to step in front of the camera. Some of Hollywood’s most notable figures have taken this approach, like Quentin Tarantino, who often graces his films with cameo appearances, and Donald Glover, who takes center stage in his series “Atlanta.” In this vein, “Yellowstone” mastermind Taylor Sheridan found himself jumping into the role of Travis Wheatley in the acclaimed neo-Western series, a move he hadn’t initially planned. Back in 2016, during an interview, Sheridan was firm about his intentions to shift from acting to focusing solely on writing and directing, stating that he had no desire to play a character in his own shows, declaring, “I don’t want to be one of those guys.” However, when “Yellowstone” debuted, Sheridan reneged on that promise, introducing his character in the first season’s “Coming Home” episode.
Sheridan’s decision to add himself to the cast has stirred a variety of opinions among viewers. While some fans appreciate his involvement, others argue that by doing so, he shifted the series’ focus too much onto himself. There’s a sentiment among certain audience members that as “Yellowstone” progressed, it became increasingly centered around Sheridan, which has led to debates about the show’s direction, particularly towards its later seasons.
In his defense, Sheridan’s portrayals have roots in his personal experiences. He assumed the role of a horse trainer, a character that resonates with his real-life background, as he not only understands the craft but also actively trains horses for the series. Initially, Wheatley was a minor character, but as the narrative unfolded, Sheridan’s role expanded significantly, leading him to become a prominent figure within the story.
In the lead-up to “Yellowstone” season 5’s finale, Sheridan’s character finds himself showcased in a rather extravagant light—flexing muscles, mingling with supermodels, and garnering admiration from women. His transformation from a supporting role to a central character sparked discussions about whether this was an exercise in self-indulgence. Advocates for Sheridan argue that his quest to inject humor into what some perceived as a tragic season was a worthy intention.
After his prominent stint on “Yellowstone,” Sheridan appeared shirtless in his series “Lioness,” and even took a small role in “1883.” With the upcoming “Yellowstone” spin-off “6666” on the horizon, fans can likely expect to see more of Sheridan and other familiar faces as they potentially take over the titular ranch.
As the “Yellowstone” saga continues, it’s available for streaming on Peacock.
