Zoe Saldaña describes demanding work with Taylor Sheridan on Lioness

Actress Zoe Saldaña said creator‑director Taylor Sheridan gives his cast “two choices” – meet his high standards or quit – describing his sets as a constant challenge. She added that she hired a private trainer to build the muscle needed for her CIA operative role in the Paramount+ spy thriller Lioness.

Saldaña also revealed that she and co‑star Nicole Kidman “tag‑team” to locate Sheridan between takes, discussing scenes that aren’t clicking. Kidman praised Saldaña as “a girl’s girl” and noted she uses a team of researchers to master the show’s dense CIA terminology. Both actresses said Sheridan is “extremely collaborative” while still demanding, pushing them to elevate their performances.

The comments were given in interviews with People magazine and USA Today, highlighting the rigorous preparation and on‑set dynamics behind the third season of Lioness, part of Sheridan’s expanding television empire that includes Yellowstone and other series.