Taylor Sheridan has emerged as one of the most prolific and impactful storytellers in contemporary television, crafting a sprawling universe of critically acclaimed dramas. With his flagship series, Yellowstone, set to conclude in 2024, Sheridan is actively diversifying his creative portfolio, launching an array of new projects while nurturing existing ones. This ambitious expansion includes not only a continued focus on Yellowstone spinoffs but also standalone successes like Tulsa King and Mayor of Kingstown, alongside upcoming titles such as Landman. The question now at the forefront of the industry and fan discussions is whether any of these burgeoning series can truly rival, or even surpass, the monumental record established by Yellowstone as Sheridan’s longest-running and most expansive franchise.

Yellowstone, widely regarded as the magnum opus of Taylor Sheridan’s television filmography, boasts an impressive five-season run, solidifying its status as his longest-running title to date. Its raw depiction of the Dutton family’s fight to protect their vast Montana ranch has captivated millions, transforming the series into a cultural phenomenon and a cornerstone for Paramount+. As Yellowstone prepares for its final chapters, the spotlight shifts to its successors and contemporaries within the ‘Sheridan-verse’. Both Tulsa King and Mayor of Kingstown are quickly gaining ground, with Tulsa King already renewed for its fourth season ahead of its third season’s release, and Mayor of Kingstown’s fourth season slated to drop later this year. While Mayor of Kingstown is reportedly planned to conclude with its fifth season (though an official renewal for season 5 is pending), Tulsa King appears poised for an even longer trajectory. The recent announcement of a Tulsa King spinoff, NOLA King, starring the iconic Samuel L. Jackson, strongly suggests that the Dwight Manfredi saga could extend for several more seasons, further bolstering its potential for longevity.

Despite the promising runs of his other series, Yellowstone’s overall scale and enduring legacy will prove exceptionally difficult to surpass. The sheer volume of Yellowstone spinoffs—both released and in development—creates a vast, interconnected narrative tapestry that few other shows can hope to replicate. Paramount is strategically committed to expanding the Yellowstone universe, recognizing its immense value as a flagship property. The initial prequels, 1883 and 1923, though comparatively brief with one and two seasons respectively, were instrumental in enriching the Dutton family’s history and expanding the lore. Crucially, future Yellowstone universe shows, such as The Madison, Dutton Ranch, and Y: Marshals, are being conceived with long-term investment in mind, aiming to build upon the existing world in diverse and compelling ways. This continuous evolution and expansion ensure that Yellowstone remains a dynamic and perpetually growing narrative, offering an unparalleled depth of storytelling and character development across generations.

Taylor Sheridan’s unique creative process and prolific output are central to this unprecedented expansion. He often writes entire seasons himself, imbuing his projects with a singular vision and a consistent thematic resonance. His distinct voice, characterized by a blend of rugged realism, moral ambiguity, and complex character motivations, resonates deeply with audiences. Whether exploring the brutal politics of a modern-day ranch, the intricate dynamics of a criminal underworld, or the harsh realities of the prison industrial complex, Sheridan’s narratives consistently deliver high stakes and compelling drama. This unwavering quality, coupled with his ability to attract A-list talent—from Kevin Costner in Yellowstone to Sylvester Stallone in Tulsa King and Jeremy Renner in Mayor of Kingstown, and now Samuel L. Jackson for NOLA King—underscores his unparalleled influence in Hollywood.

Tulsa King, in particular, has captivated audiences by placing a seasoned New York mob capo, Dwight “The General” Manfredi (Stallone), in the unfamiliar territory of Tulsa, Oklahoma. This “fish out of water” premise, expertly blended with sharp wit and intense mob drama, has proven to be a winning formula. Stallone’s charismatic performance brings a gravitas and an unexpected humor to the character, making Dwight a compelling figure to follow. The series explores themes of redemption, adapting to change, and the persistent pull of one’s past, all while building a fresh criminal empire in the American heartland. The potential for Tulsa King to delve deeper into Dwight’s personal life, his evolving relationships, and the expanding criminal network in Oklahoma provides ample narrative runway for sustained viewership, making it a strong contender for a lengthy run.

Meanwhile, Mayor of Kingstown offers a grittier, more somber exploration of power, corruption, and the justice system. Starring Jeremy Renner as Mike McLusky, the series navigates the treacherous landscape of Kingstown, Michigan, where the only industry is incarceration. McLusky acts as an unofficial intermediary between rival gangs, prison guards, and the town’s authorities, desperately trying to maintain a fragile peace. The show’s unflinching portrayal of the prison-industrial complex, the cyclical nature of crime, and the moral compromises required to survive in such an environment has earned it critical acclaim. Renner’s raw and nuanced performance anchors the series, depicting a man burdened by immense responsibility and the weight of a broken system. While Mayor of Kingstown may have a more defined narrative arc with a projected five-season conclusion, its thematic depth and powerful performances have solidified its place as a significant component of the Sheridan-verse.

Paramount’s strategic investment in Taylor Sheridan’s creative output is undeniable. They have positioned his collective works as a cornerstone of their Paramount+ streaming service, recognizing that his brand guarantees high viewership, critical buzz, and a loyal, engaged fanbase. Yellowstone and its prequels have undeniably become the streamer’s flagship titles, drawing in subscribers and setting a benchmark for original content. The challenge now lies in managing this vast and ever-growing portfolio, ensuring that each new series and spinoff maintains the high quality and narrative integrity that audiences have come to expect. While audience fatigue is a potential risk, Sheridan’s track record suggests a remarkable ability to keep stories fresh and compelling, leveraging diverse settings, time periods, and character perspectives.

In conclusion, while Tulsa King and Mayor of Kingstown are undeniably successful and possess the narrative depth and star power to achieve significant individual runs, surpassing the overall impact and sheer scale of the Yellowstone franchise will be an extraordinary feat. Yellowstone, with its five-season core series and an ever-expanding universe of prequels and potential future narratives, represents not just a show, but a multi-generational epic that has redefined the Western genre and captured the zeitgeist. Taylor Sheridan’s remarkable ability to craft interconnected worlds, populated by complex characters and rich with compelling drama, ensures his continued dominance in the television landscape. As his universe continues to expand, it solidifies his legacy as a visionary storyteller, even as the challenge of matching Yellowstone’s enduring empire remains a fascinating prospect.