The professional relationship between "Yellowstone" star Cole Hauser and showrunner Taylor Sheridan has reportedly become increasingly strained, with sources close to the situation describing a "classic California versus Texas" feud that has escalated to the point of nearly coming to blows for a second time.
According to a report from the Daily Mail, the actor, known for his role as Rip Wheeler, and the creator, Sheridan, have been at odds for some time. One insider characterized Sheridan as a "harsh Texas guy" who is "super straightforward," while Hauser is described as a more casual "surfer dude" from Santa Barbara. This contrast, the source noted, makes them "oil and water."
Another source speculated that Sheridan might harbor some envy toward Hauser's acting career, contrasting it with Sheridan's own past struggles as an actor before transitioning to writing and directing. This perspective suggests Sheridan's critical approach to actors might stem from his own experiences.
However, a third source offered a different view, stating that Hauser maintains a high level of respect for Sheridan and is grateful for his role on "Yellowstone" and its associated projects. This individual claimed that Hauser often apologizes quickly during disagreements, understanding Sheridan's intolerance for "actor crap" and desire for actors to remain disciplined.
Despite these claims of deference, Hauser himself made comments in a Filmside interview last month that alluded to "challenges" faced during filming "Dutton Ranch" without Sheridan's direct on-set presence. He stated, "It was about putting my head down and working my ass off with what I had around me. We had to figure out on our feet how to really perform and tell a story."
These remarks were reportedly "not appreciated" and were seen as signaling on-set problems. Representatives for both Sheridan and Hauser did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The professional friction between Hauser and Sheridan reportedly dates back to 2017, the year they began working together. Hauser previously mentioned in a 2022 Men's Journal interview that he and Sheridan had a physical altercation the second time they encountered each other, though details were not provided.
Further complicating their relationship, the pair became involved in a legal dispute in November 2023 concerning their competing coffee brands. Sheridan's Bosque Ranch sued Hauser's Free Rein over alleged logo similarity. This lawsuit was dismissed in January 2024, with neither party commenting publicly on the matter.