Key Takeaways:
• Successful Hollywood figure Taylor Sheridan attributes his success to willpower and innovative storytelling, despite starting as a struggling actor.
• His rise to fame wasn't marked by fortune or connections, but rather by his brilliance, distinct perspective, and verve.
• Well-regarded as the creator of Yellowstone and other noteworthy work in the industry, Sheridan's contribution has made him a treasured asset.
Struggles to Stardom
Despite modest beginnings in his acting career, Taylor Sheridan's star rose impressively in Hollywood. His acting stint seemed promising, but it was as a writer, producer, showrunner, and director that his true prowess became evident. Establishing his name wasn't borne out of serendipity, instead, it was Sheridan's brilliance and unwavering determination that paved the way.
His Impressive Contribution to Hollywood
Sheridan's extraordinary career, marked by his creation of hit show Yellowstone, spin-off series, and four significant Hollywood movies, speaks volumes about his prowess. Amid the vast pool of creative talent in the industry, Sheridan's name shines brightly, a testament to his exceptional work in an era ruled by potent influence and favoritism.
Moving Past Challenges
For two decades, Sheridan diligently toiled in the background, away from the spotlight. He fine-tuned his skill that, unbeknownst to him, would propel him to center stage in Hollywood. Despite an unconventional start as an unsatisfied employee on FX's Sons of Anarchy, he dared to ask for more, both in terms of a significant role and a substantial paycheck. Meeting with failure, he used it as a stepping stone instead of letting it stifle his talent.
Finding Success in Unexpected Places
Sheridan showcased his brilliance at the age of 38 after facing rejection for his ambitious nature. His career took off with his film Sicario, soon followed by his Oscar-nominated Hell or High Water, which became stepping stones to his successful series Yellowstone. The show and its spinoff have since set a high bar in the entertainment industry.
The Secret Behind Sheridan's Success
In an interview with the New York Times, Sheridan revealed his extraordinary journey. He credits renowned authors Cormac McCarthy, Larry McMurtry, Toni Morrison, Gabriel García Márquez, and John Steinbeck for inspiring him. He boldly confessed he had never taken a screenwriting class and relied on understanding good and bad scripts by his experience of reading and re-reading scripts from his acting career.
Driven to Share Untold Stories
Sheridan's primary drive is to share stories through authentic work in entertainment television. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining honesty and authenticity in his storytelling. His exemplary work has been on display through Sicario, Yellowstone, Wind River, and Mayor of Kingstown; projects that bring the darker realities of our world to the fore without resorting to cliched narrative styles.
Conclusion
Sheridan's journey in Hollywood is an awe-inspiring tale of willpower and sheer talent. His exceptional work and contribution to the industry reiterate the importance of staying true to your passion, even in the face of adversity. Yellowstone, studded with Sheridan's hard-earned wisdom and nature-inspired storytelling approach, is available for streaming on Paramount+. Sheridan's journey is a beacon to aspiring creatives in the world of cinema and TV, proving it's never too late to follow your dreams.
