During an appearance on the January 12, 2024 episode of the podcast “Smartless,” Jennifer Lawrence shared a surprising anecdote about receiving acting advice from Taylor Sheridan, the acclaimed creator of hit series such as Yellowstone and Landman. Lawrence recounted how, in her early career, her mother took her to meet Sheridan, who, at the time, was offering guidance to aspiring actors.
Lawrence reflected on their brief encounter, stating, “He told my mom, don’t put her in any acting lessons. That guy, randomly, is Taylor Sheridan. Isn’t that weird? Isn’t that crazy?” This unexpected connection occurred when Lawrence was just a child, long before she became an Oscar-winning actress.
A Chance Meeting and Future Connections
Years later, Lawrence and Sheridan crossed paths again while discussing a different project, although they did not recall their earlier meeting. She explained, “Somebody made the connection for me when I was doing a Q and A for a movie like two or three years ago.” Despite their limited interaction, Lawrence expressed doubt that Sheridan would remember their encounter since she was “just a little kid” at the time.
Today, Sheridan is celebrated for his contributions to television, particularly his ability to craft compelling narratives like Yellowstone, which premiered in 2018 and concluded in 2024. Before establishing his TV empire, Sheridan had a successful acting career, notably portraying David Hale in the series Sons of Anarchy. In 2015, he gained significant recognition for writing Sicario, a film that starred Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, and Benicio del Toro.
From Acting to Storytelling
In a 2015 interview, Sheridan explained the inspiration behind Sicario: “It was a fascination with a largely ignored calamity happening so close to our own border. It affects so many people and is a massive business that really permeates every region of this nation and wreaks such havoc and isn’t talked about.” This approach to storytelling has become a hallmark of his work.
While Sheridan has primarily focused on writing, he has occasionally returned to acting, guest-starring as Travis Wheatley in Yellowstone. He described his evolution from acting to writing, saying, “I didn’t want to tell other people’s stories anymore. I wanted to tell my own.” His transition allowed him to explore his artistic vision more fully.
In addition to Yellowstone, Sheridan has created several other notable shows, including Mayor of Kingstown, Tulsa King, Lioness, 1883, and 1923. His work continues to shape the landscape of modern television, making him a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
As Lawrence’s reflection highlights, the paths of talented individuals can cross in unexpected ways, sometimes leaving a lasting impact that resonates for years to come.
