What Does This Mean for Taylor Sheridan?
But with that investment comes belt-tightening elsewhere — and Sheridan’s sprawling TV empire is an obvious target. According to a report earlier this year, incoming head of streamingCindy Hollandaims to cap budgets at around $9 million per episode, a steep drop from the $12–$16 million that Sheridan’s shows typically command. The plan also includes licensing select Paramount+ originals to outside platforms for added revenue.
Sheridan isn’t said to be in open conflict with Paramount’s leadership, but sources suggest he’s less than thrilled about leveraging his shows to cover weaknesses elsewhere in the company. His current deal runs through 2027, meaning a potential showdown over budgets could be on the horizon. The stakes are high: in 2024,Sheridan’sLandmanranked thirdamong all original streaming series with nearly 10 billion minutes viewed, whileTulsa Kingpulled in 8.47 billion.1923remains one of the most discussed dramas on TV, and theYellowstonebrand continues to anchorboth streaming and upcoming CBS spin-offs featuringKelly Reilly,Cole Hauser, andLuke Grimes.
Still, the UFC deal signals a strategic pivot. As Ellison and Holland look to maximize high-reach, year-round properties, scripted dramas — even those as reliable as Sheridan’s — may need to adapt to leaner budgets or risk being sidelined. Whether Sheridan chooses to play ball or take his talents to a rival streamer when his contract is up could determine the future of Paramount+. For now, the message is clear: Paramount’s new prizefighter isn’t a cowboy — it’s the Octagon.
Yellowstone
A ranching family in Montana faces off against others encroaching on their land.
