Before Taylor Sheridan became the mastermind behind Yellowstone, he was just another working actor trying to make it in Hollywood. While fans now know him as the creative genius behind some of TV’s grittiest Western dramas, many have forgotten that he once had a role in the long-running crime procedural NCIS.
Yes, that’s right—Sheridan appeared on NCIS before stepping behind the camera to create hits like 1883, 1923, and Mayor of Kingstown. But who exactly did he play, and why has this role been overlooked? Let’s dive into the forgotten NCIS character that Yellowstone’s Taylor Sheridan once brought to life.
Who Is Taylor Sheridan?
Before we get into his NCIS days, let’s take a quick look at Taylor Sheridan’s journey.
From Struggling Actor to Hollywood Powerhouse
Sheridan started as an actor, landing minor roles in TV shows like Walker, Texas Ranger, Veronica Mars, and NCIS. However, he struggled to break into leading roles, eventually shifting his focus to screenwriting and directing.
The Man Behind Yellowstone
His decision paid off—Sheridan is now one of the biggest names in television, responsible for the Yellowstone universe and films like Sicario and Hell or High Water.
But before all that, he had a guest role in a show almost everyone has watched at some point—NCIS.
Taylor Sheridan’s Role in NCIS
So, who did Sheridan play in NCIS?
Meet Danny Pierce
Sheridan appeared in the Season 4 episode “Trojan Horse” as Danny Pierce, a minor but memorable character. In this episode, Danny is introduced as a federal agent working alongside the NCIS team on a case involving an international conspiracy.
Why You Probably Forgot About His Role
Unlike some guest stars who make a huge impact, Sheridan’s role in NCIS was brief. He wasn’t playing a villain or a major suspect—he was just another agent helping out for an episode.
Additionally, at the time, Sheridan wasn’t a well-known name. Fans watching NCIS in 2007 wouldn’t have given his performance a second thought. Now, in hindsight, it’s wild to realize that the man who created Yellowstone was once just another supporting actor on the hit CBS show.
Other TV Roles You Forgot Taylor Sheridan Played
Before he became a household name, Sheridan had a string of small roles in various popular shows.
Sons of Anarchy
Sheridan played Deputy Chief David Hale in the first three seasons of Sons of Anarchy. His character was a straight-laced cop caught between doing his job and dealing with the outlaw motorcycle gang.
Veronica Mars
He made a brief appearance in Veronica Mars, playing a minor but important role in one of the show’s mystery arcs.
Walker, Texas Ranger
Even in the ’90s, Sheridan was grinding, with a small guest role in Walker, Texas Ranger.
These roles show just how much he hustled before finally making a name for himself as a writer and director.
How His Acting Career Influenced Yellowstone
Sheridan’s background as an actor has had a direct impact on how he creates his shows.
Understanding Actors’ Needs
Having been on both sides of the camera, Sheridan knows what actors need to give their best performances. He writes complex, layered characters that challenge his cast.
A Passion for Authentic Storytelling
Sheridan often speaks about how his experiences in Hollywood shaped his approach to storytelling. He prioritizes realism, especially in his Westerns, making Yellowstone feel more grounded than traditional TV dramas.
Why This NCIS Role Matters Today
Even though his time on NCIS was brief, it’s a fun piece of trivia for fans. It also serves as a reminder that every big name in Hollywood starts somewhere.
A Full-Circle Moment
Now that Sheridan is one of the most powerful figures in television, it’s fascinating to look back at his early roles. His journey from bit-part actor to one of the biggest TV creators in the industry is inspiring.
Fans Are Rediscovering His NCIS Appearance
Thanks to streaming services, old episodes of NCIS are always getting rewatched, leading fans to stumble upon Sheridan’s episode and go, “Wait a minute… isn’t that the Yellowstone guy?”
Conclusion
Taylor Sheridan’s appearance on NCIS may not have been groundbreaking, but it’s a cool hidden gem in his career. It’s a reminder that even the most successful creators had to start somewhere—whether in the background of a crime procedural or as a struggling actor taking whatever roles they could get.
Now, when you rewatch NCIS, keep an eye out for a familiar face. You might just spot the man behind Yellowstone, long before he became one of Hollywood’s biggest names.
