When you think of Taylor Sheridan, you might immediately recall his iconic work as a writer and director in the Yellowstone universe. But did you know that Sheridan is also an accomplished actor? While his roles may not be as widely recognized as his behind-the-scenes contributions, the characters he’s brought to life on screen are both memorable and captivating. Whether it’s a rugged cowboy or a troubled lawman, Sheridan has a knack for playing complex, layered roles that resonate with audiences.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the ten best characters played by Taylor Sheridan, ranked from good to great. If you’re a fan of his work in Yellowstone, Sicario, or Wind River, you won’t want to miss this breakdown. Let’s explore his career as an actor and celebrate some of the most unforgettable characters he’s portrayed on screen!
10. Dave – Comancheria (2016)
At number 10, we start with a lesser-known role from Sheridan’s career in Comancheria (also known as Hell or High Water). In this film, Taylor Sheridan plays Dave, a supporting character in a gripping modern Western about two brothers (played by Chris Pine and Ben Foster) trying to save their family farm. Dave is a more subdued character compared to some of Sheridan’s other roles, but his performance still stands out.
Sheridan’s portrayal of Dave adds an element of quiet intensity to the film, providing a sense of realism to the otherwise high-stakes drama. While he doesn’t get a lot of screen time, his performance feels grounded and authentic, helping to enhance the emotional depth of the story.
9. John Dutton Sr. – 1923 (2022)
Sheridan has made waves with his work as the creator and writer of the Yellowstone prequels, and his role as John Dutton Sr. in 1923 is no exception. Although the character doesn’t get as much screen time as other Duttons in the Yellowstone universe, Sheridan plays him with authority and a stoic presence.
As the patriarch of the Dutton family in the early 20th century, Sheridan brings a level of seriousness and grit to John Dutton Sr. His portrayal of a man struggling with land disputes, survival, and the changing times adds a layer of depth to the prequel series. While his role is smaller, it sets the stage for the larger Dutton legacy that will unfold in the show’s later seasons.
8. The Cowboy – Sicario (2015)
One of Sheridan’s more intense performances comes from his role in Sicario as the enigmatic cowboy, a minor but critical character in the film. While his role doesn’t dominate the screen, Sheridan’s performance is a perfect example of his ability to embody the rough, no-nonsense characters that have become his signature. His rugged presence and stoic demeanor make a lasting impact, even in brief moments of screen time.
In Sicario, the Cowboy serves as a vehicle to highlight the tension and darkness of the world of drug cartels and government corruption. Sheridan’s portrayal adds layers to this world, making him an integral part of the film’s broader themes of moral ambiguity and the human cost of violence.
7. Steve – Vile (2011)
Although Vile is more of a niche film, Sheridan’s role as Steve in the psychological horror movie is an interesting entry in his acting portfolio. As Steve, Sheridan brings a surprising level of vulnerability to the role, which stands in contrast to the often tough-guy personas he’s known for. Vile is a deeply unsettling film, and Sheridan’s ability to convey fear and emotional conflict adds significant depth to his character.
While Vile may not be a massive breakout role for Sheridan, it’s a reminder of his range as an actor. The complexity of Steve’s character showcases Sheridan’s versatility and his ability to tackle roles in different genres, including horror and suspense.
6. Billy – Wind River (2017)
In the thrilling crime drama Wind River, Sheridan doesn’t just shine as a writer and director—he also makes a memorable appearance as Billy, a character who represents the quiet pain of the Native American community caught in a harsh, unforgiving world. Sheridan’s performance as Billy is understated but powerful. He plays a man who is deeply affected by the loss of his people and the societal disconnect between different cultures.
While the film’s central focus is on the investigation into the murder of a young Native American woman, Sheridan’s Billy serves as an emotional anchor that gives the film its heart. His portrayal is raw, vulnerable, and relatable, making it one of his most poignant performances.
5. Steve – The Last Cowboy (2003)
In The Last Cowboy, Sheridan takes on the role of Steve, a young cowboy trying to make his way in the competitive world of rodeo. The film, which centers around the high-stakes world of professional rodeo, offers Sheridan a chance to showcase his natural affinity for the Western genre. Steve is a character who is both charming and flawed, and Sheridan’s portrayal captures the rough-and-tumble nature of the rodeo circuit.
Sheridan’s performance in The Last Cowboy allowed him to bring his own life experiences as an actor to the role, portraying a character who is simultaneously determined, ambitious, and vulnerable. This role paved the way for his future success in the Western genre, especially in the Yellowstone universe.
4. David Hale – Sons of Anarchy (2008-2010)
Taylor Sheridan’s role as David Hale in the iconic biker drama Sons of Anarchy is one of his most notable performances. As the ambitious and morally conflicted sheriff’s deputy, Hale finds himself caught in the dangerous and high-stakes world of motorcycle clubs and criminal activities. Sheridan plays the role with a quiet intensity that allows his character to evolve from a seemingly clean-cut lawman to someone deeply entangled in the corruption surrounding him.
Hale’s character arc is one of the most complex in the series, and Sheridan’s nuanced performance brings the internal conflict of the character to the forefront. His role in Sons of Anarchy helped showcase his ability to bring depth to morally ambiguous characters, laying the groundwork for the kinds of roles he would take on in his later work.
3. Jim – Wyatt Earp (1994)
Taylor Sheridan’s role as Jim in Wyatt Earp may not be the most prominent, but it holds significance in his early career. In this iconic Western, Sheridan portrays a character who is a part of the legendary tale of Wyatt Earp and his band of lawmen. Jim is a minor but important figure in the broader narrative of the film, and Sheridan’s performance is solid and understated.
While it’s not the breakout role that would catapult Sheridan to fame, Wyatt Earp represents an early entry into the Western genre—a theme that would continue to define much of his career. It’s clear that Sheridan has always had a strong connection to the Western genre, and his work in Wyatt Earp reflects the rugged authenticity that would become his trademark in later roles.
2. Travis – Yellowstone (2018-Present)
In his recurring role as Travis in Yellowstone, Taylor Sheridan plays a seasoned cowboy and horse trainer who has a history with the Dutton family. Though Travis doesn’t always play a central role in the plot, his character is a fan favorite due to Sheridan’s natural ability to capture the essence of the Western lifestyle. He brings authenticity, charm, and a bit of humor to the role, making him a beloved character among fans.
Travis’s role in Yellowstone is a perfect example of Sheridan’s knack for playing the tough, no-nonsense cowboy while still adding depth and relatability to the character. His appearances may be few and far between, but when Travis shows up, you can bet that he’ll make an impact.
1. Cole – The Texas Rangers (2001)
Taking the top spot on our list is Taylor Sheridan’s role as Cole in The Texas Rangers, a Western action film where Sheridan delivers one of his most iconic performances. Cole is a young, rebellious member of the Texas Rangers, and his character is emblematic of the archetype of the Western hero. Sheridan plays him with raw energy and a sense of recklessness that makes him stand out in a film filled with larger-than-life characters.
Sheridan’s performance in The Texas Rangers is a perfect example of his ability to inhabit the world of Westerns. His portrayal of Cole shows his natural talent for playing characters who are morally complex and who operate in morally gray areas. It’s no surprise that this role set the stage for his later success in Yellowstone and other Western-themed projects.
Conclusion: Taylor Sheridan’s Versatility and Iconic Roles
Taylor Sheridan may be best known for his work behind the camera as a writer and director, but his acting career has been just as impressive. Whether he’s playing a tough cowboy, a conflicted lawman, or a morally ambiguous character, Sheridan brings a level of authenticity and depth to every role. From his early days in Wyatt Earp to his standout performances in Yellowstone and Sicario, Sheridan has proven that he’s one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood.
So, whether you’re a fan of the Yellowstone universe, Westerns, or just great acting, there’s no denying that Taylor Sheridan has left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry—both in front of and behind the camera.
FAQ: Does Taylor Sheridan have any future acting projects?
While Taylor Sheridan’s primary focus has been on writing and directing, it’s clear that his acting career is far from over. Sheridan has expressed interest in continuing to take on select acting roles in addition to his directing work. While there isn’t any official word on his upcoming projects, fans are hoping to see more of his talent on screen in the future!
