Why Taylor Sheridan’s Hit Shows Face Emmy Snubs Despite Star-Studded Cast and High Ratings

It wasn’t for lack of effort. Major-name actors starring in at least two Taylor Sheridan shows recently participated in multiple “for your consideration” Emmy campaigns leading up to this year’s nominations.

Yet, when the 2025 Emmy nominations were announced, all six of Sheridan’s eligible dramas were shut out of major categories. This includes the debut season of Landman, which Paramount+ had hoped would break Sheridan’s Emmy curse.

While a few of his series received below-the-line nominations — such as Tulsa King and Lioness for best stunts, and 1923 for production design and costumes — popular shows like Landman, Mayor of Kingstown, and the final season of Yellowstone were completely overlooked.

This outcome is striking considering Sheridan’s dramas feature highly respected actors such as Helen Mirren, Harrison Ford, and Billy Bob Thornton—all active during campaign season. Yet, Ford was snubbed for his role in 1923, despite a nomination for his other show, Shrinking. Thornton was also left out despite a Golden Globe nomination.

Why the Snubs?

Several theories attempt to explain this surprising trend.

One is that Sheridan’s shows appeal to America’s heartland, while most nominated series tend to cater to coastal and urban viewers (e.g., The Studio, Hacks, The Bear, Severance). Labeling Sheridan’s work as strictly “Red State” oversimplifies his themes—his protagonists often hold pro-environment views. Still, some viral moments reinforce a conservative reputation, such as Yellowstone’s John Dutton lecturing a vegan protester or Tommy Norris criticizing green energy.

Ratings and Quality

Despite the perceived political divide, Sheridan’s shows generally earn higher ratings than many nominated dramas, and the performances in his series are widely considered strong and award-worthy. Yet, this hasn’t translated into major Emmy recognition.

Network Prestige Factor

Another factor is Paramount+’s relative newness to awards season prestige. Launched just four years ago, it lacks the established industry cachet of networks like HBO. Shows like 1923 might be perceived differently if aired on more prestigious platforms. Networks such as Hulu and Prime Video quickly gained respect once their hit shows like The Handmaid’s Tale and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel debuted.

Industry Relations and Politics

Perhaps the most candid explanation lies in Sheridan’s independent and outspoken nature. Living on a massive Texas ranch, far from the Hollywood scene, he largely avoids Emmy politicking. His occasional public statements have sometimes sparked backlash. While his accomplishments are undeniable, the industry’s personal feelings towards Sheridan may influence voting behavior.

What Could Have Been?

Would Landman have received nominations with a different showrunner, such as John Wells? It’s impossible to say, but many believe its chances would have improved significantly.