Actress Zoe Saldaña said creator Taylor Sheridan writes realistic and complex women for the series "Lioness".
Saldaña's comments address long-standing criticisms regarding Sheridan's ability to craft female roles. By highlighting the depth of the characters in the series, she aims to counter the narrative that the writer struggles to portray women authentically.
Speaking in July during the promotion of the show's third season [1], Saldaña said the writing during a premiere event in New York City [2]. She noted that the characters in the series are "incredible complex individuals" [3].
Saldaña said that Sheridan "really sees women" [3]. The actress said that the creator possesses a specific skill for developing strong female leads who are not one-dimensional. She said that he writes "great, complex women" [4].
The series is currently entering its third season [5]. The latest installment of "Lioness" premiered on Aug. 2, 2026 [6], on Paramount+.
During the New York City event, Saldaña said that Sheridan creates characters who are gender-fluid in their capabilities — meaning they are written as professionals who could be played by anyone regardless of gender [2]. This approach, she said, allows the characters to exist as fully realized people rather than tropes.
Saldaña's support comes as the show continues to expand its footprint on the streaming platform. Her perspective as a lead actress provides a first-hand account of the collaborative process between the writer and the performers tasked with bringing these complex roles to life.
“He really sees women.”
This public endorsement by Saldaña serves as a strategic counter-narrative to the critical discourse surrounding Taylor Sheridan's writing. By framing the female characters of 'Lioness' as gender-fluid in their competence and complexity, Saldaña is arguing that Sheridan's strength lies in writing capable humans rather than adhering to gender stereotypes.
