‘Lioness’ Star Zoe Saldana Reveals What It’s Really Like to Work With Taylor Sheridan

Lioness star Zoe Saldana opens up in a new interview about what it's like working with the show's creator and writer, Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan.

In a recent interview with People, Saldana admits that working with Sheridan "is a challenge" due to his high expectations, but also says it's "great" to be part of such compelling work.

What Is Taylor Sheridan Like to Work With?

“So working with him is a challenge in the sense that he does raise the bar,” Saldana says. “And you have one of two choices. You either accept the challenge and make sure that you don’t f-ck up... or you quit. And I like being challenged. I really do.”

Though Sheridan is legendary for his intensity and strong personality, “When he knows that you care, when he knows where you’re coming from, when you know exactly what it is that you want to talk about, he meets you where you’re at,” Saldana tells People, adding, “He’s very collaborative.”

Lioness has seen Saldana working directly with Sheridan not only as a writer and creator, but as a fellow actor. She plays a CIA operative named Joe who is part of a special elite unit on Lioness, while he plays Sergeant Major Cody Spears, a Delta Force operator who provides key support on many missions.

“It’s actually great,” Saldana says. “When you work with him is when you realize how passionate he is about actors and about acting. I think it is his first love when it comes to the arts.

“He’s an incredibly smart person. He’s very curious about government affairs, and he seeks out information and education based on that curiosity,” she adds.

“And then he writes these incredibly elaborate shows that end up really educating us as well.”

What Is Lioness?

Lioness is an international spy thriller created by Sheridan.

IMDb describes Lioness, "CIA operative Joe McNamara and her team attempt to balance their personal and professional lives as the tip of the spear in the agency's war on terror."

Who Stars on Lioness?

The show stars Zoe Saldana, Michael Kelly, Morgan Freeman, Nicole Kidman and more.

IMDb features a comprehensive list of the cast and crew of Lioness.

Will There Be a Lioness Season 3?

Yes.

Paramount+ announced the hit thriller had been renewed for a third season in October of 2025.

What Will Happen in Season 3 of Lioness?

"In Season 3, hidden networks, foreign operatives, and personal betrayals collide," a press release describes the upcoming season.

"Joe (Saldana) walks the line between duty and home as unseen forces circle her world. Patterns appear where they shouldn’t, names vanish, and paths rearrange. Guided by Kaitlyn (Kidman) and Westfield (Michael Kelly), Joe confronts enemies operating in the shadows, leaving her to reckon with a war that now reaches into every part of her life."

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Is There a Trailer for Lioness Season 3?

Yes.

Paramount+ released an official trailer for Lioness Season 3 on July 16. Click the video below to view it:

When Does Lioness Season 3 Premiere?

Lioness Season 3 premiered on Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026.

How Can I Watch Lioness Season 3?

Lioness Season 3 airs exclusively on Paramount+, with new episodes available every Sunday.

The first two seasons are currently available to stream.