Zoe Saldaña’s Role in Sheridan’s ‘Lioness’ Poses Significant Demands

Zoe Saldaña, an Oscar-winning actress, has reached her limit with Taylor Sheridan’s TV work. Saldaña leads in Sheridan’s CIA drama Lioness as Joe McNamara, and she expressed that the challenging role is all she can manage at this time.

Saldaña explained to People magazine that her responsibilities on Lioness involve an immense workload. She said, “I’m number one on the call sheet. I am first one in, last one out.” Months of preparation are required before filming starts, adding to her heavy duties.

She mentioned that continuing in more of Sheridan’s projects is unlikely. Yet, Saldaña believes that their work together has built trust, with Sheridan recognizing her as reliable, honest, and tough.

Even before the third season premiered, Saldaña had concerns about handling the demands of her role. It’s the most challenging role she’s undertaken thus far.

Lioness finished its third season on September 20. The show has yet to receive a confirmation for a fourth season from Paramount+. In the final episodes of season three, Joe’s career brings intense personal struggles, affecting her family and marriage.

Saldaña appreciates Sheridan’s writing, which emphasizes a character’s abilities rather than gender. She has profound respect for creators who successfully write female characters, and she feels honored to have portrayed Joe McNamara.