“Jack Schumacher Reveals How James Brolin Kept ‘Ransom Canyon’ Set Energized”

James Brolin’s Ransom Canyon co-star Jack Schumacher reveals the ways that Brolin keeps things fresh on set

When a seasoned legend like James Brolin shows up on set, there’s a wealth of experience, creativity, and professionalism to learn from — and his latest project, the Netflix Western drama Ransom Canyon, is no exception. In this new series, Brolin takes on the role of “Cap,” a retired military captain with a commanding presence who hires a foreman named Yancy Grey to manage his sprawling ranch. But Yancy, played by Jack Schumacher, carries a mysterious and troubled past that slowly unfolds, adding layers of intrigue to the story.

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Jack Schumacher, who portrays Yancy Grey, to get insight into what it’s like working alongside a Hollywood icon like James Brolin. Schumacher didn’t hold back his admiration. “Man, I love James,” he said warmly. “I’ve been very lucky to work with a lot of incredible actors, and he is definitely one of them.” What stood out most to Schumacher was Brolin’s constant willingness to explore new facets of his character in every take.

“You’ll hear about actors who try something different each take or come up with fresh ideas for their role, but James? He really kept me on my toes,” Schumacher explained. “Not in a bad way — it was more like this exciting unpredictability. He’d try something new, and I’d have to react authentically in the moment. I even watched a couple of scenes where they cut to me right after he did something completely unexpected. My reaction was genuine because I was just like, ‘What?!’ He’d throw something new at me every single time.”

It’s genuinely inspiring to hear that at eighty-four years old, James Brolin still brings that kind of fearless creativity and energy to the set. Reinventing a character over multiple takes is no small feat, especially for a veteran actor who has been in the industry for decades. That kind of dedication and passion for craft is what sets legends apart.

Ransom Canyon marks Brolin’s return to Netflix after his memorable work as the Narrator in the streamer’s adaptation of Jeff Lemire’s critically acclaimed comic series, Sweet Tooth. That show wrapped up its third and final season in 2024, leaving fans eager for more of Brolin’s commanding presence on screen. Thankfully, Ransom Canyon offers exactly that, bringing Brolin back into the spotlight with a complex and captivating role.

The series itself is a fresh take on the Western genre, blending classic cowboy grit with modern storytelling and mysteries that keep viewers hooked. Brolin’s “Cap” is a strong-willed character, but beneath that tough exterior lies a man shaped by a lifetime of experiences, struggles, and secrets — much like the enigmatic Yancy Grey. Their dynamic on screen, as described by Schumacher, is electric, fueled by Brolin’s unpredictability and Schumacher’s genuine reactions.

As Ransom Canyon continues to build momentum, it’s clear that James Brolin’s star power and creative spirit play a huge role in elevating the show. For fans of Westerns, Netflix dramas, or simply powerful performances by acting legends, this series is shaping up to be a must-watch.

So if you’re craving some compelling storytelling with unforgettable characters and masterful acting, saddle up and give Ransom Canyon a watch. And keep an eye on Jack Schumacher — his chemistry with Brolin is something that makes the show truly special. With veterans like Brolin leading the way, the future of this series looks promising indeed.