Ali Larter Defends Taylor Sheridan Amid Character Criticism
Ali Larter is coming to the defense of Taylor Sheridan, who has received backlash for the way he portrayed her character, Angela Norris, in the Paramount+ series, “Landsman.” Viewers have noted that Larter’s character often appears in bikinis or tight dresses throughout the first season.
In an interview, Larter, who is 49 years old, called Sheridan a “provocateur” and praised his storytelling skills. She mentioned that he enjoys crafting characters that evoke strong reactions, emphasizing the originality and authenticity of his work.
“He has a unique talent for making characters that resonate and stir emotions. The brilliance of our show and many others Taylor directs is its originality,” Larter stated.
She went on to highlight the captivating narrative elements that Sheridan brings to the table, noting how he makes even the oil-rich landscapes of West Texas intriguing. “It’s astounding how the show draws in diverse audiences from various backgrounds,” she remarked, suggesting that his genius lies in this appeal.
Larter plays Angela, the ex-wife of Tommy Norris, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, in a drama that also features stars like Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, and Michelle Randolph. She emphasized her character’s fierce protectiveness as a mother, sharing, “I would go to great lengths for my kids.” Reflecting on this, she added, “I think many parents, like myself, would relate to that instinct.”
Interestingly, Larter mentioned Sheridan’s influence on her character, specifically how he incorporated a passion for cooking into her role. “When I got the part, he started encouraging that aspect,” she shared playfully. She joked about preparing ‘Michelin-starred’ lunch boxes for her kids during the pandemic.
Sheridan has been behind many successful shows at Paramount, including “Yellowstone” and “Tulsa King,” but news has surfaced regarding his departure from the network. Reports indicate disagreements with Paramount’s new CEO, David Ellison, particularly over programming that Sheridan deemed too politically charged.
His contract with Paramount runs until 2028; however, he plans to transition to NBCUniversal with a new movie deal starting in 2026. There’s also been chatter concerning potential issues regarding his other projects, yet Sheridan seems to remain unfazed.
