“Lioness”’ Jill Wagner Reveals Taylor Sheridan Had Her Relearn a Scene Left-Handed with 10 Minutes’ Notice (Exclusive)

**Exciting Challenges Ahead for ‘Lioness’ Stars in Season 3**

As production continues on the third season of the Paramount+ series ‘Lioness,’ the cast, including Jill Wagner and Laysla De Oliveira, are opening up about their experiences on set, particularly under the direction of creator Taylor Sheridan. Known for his intense and thought-provoking storytelling, Sheridan has instilled a sense of adaptability among his actors, especially during high-stakes filming.

Wagner, who portrays Bobby—an assertive special operations team leader and the right-hand woman to CIA officer Joe McNamara, played by Zoe Saldaña—has shared how working with Sheridan has pushed her beyond her limits. Reflecting on the filming process for season 3, she revealed that while this season might not have been the most physically demanding, there was one notable day that presented exceptional challenges.

While rehearsing an intricate sequence alongside De Oliveira, who plays the role of Cruz Manuelos—a Marine turned CIA operative—the duo encountered difficulties in mastering a specific entrance into a house. Despite their preparation, just ten minutes before shooting, Sheridan intervened with a last-minute directive that required Wagner to switch her weapon to her left hand. “I was just like, ‘Hmm … okay. Help me,’” she described, illustrating the quick thinking required in Sheridan’s creative process.

Despite the unexpected change, Wagner found the experience rewarding, stating that it ultimately became one of her favourite moments from the season. Both actresses recognised that working under such high-pressure conditions fosters a unique environment where they gain confidence in their abilities.

De Oliveira further elaborated on the great unpredictability that working with Sheridan offers. “That’s the coolest thing about working with Taylor. He can change things on the spot,” she explained. Although Sheridan refrains from altering the script itself, he often reconfigures direction, demanding flexibility from the cast. De Oliveira noted that these challenges leave actors feeling empowered, stating, “If you can pick that up, then you go onto another set and think, ‘Well, this one time I did everything with my left hand even though I’m right-handed.’”

Yet, there’s another dimension to Sheridan that the audience may not immediately perceive; according to De Oliveira, he also possesses a sensitive side that significantly informs his narrative style. She recounted how during the first season, she and Sheridan would rehearse scenes together, allowing her to feel more connected to his vision. When he wasn’t as present in the second season, she reached out for guidance, only to have him encourage her to trust in her own capabilities. “You’re a big kid now,” he told her, reinforcing her independence as an actress.

Wagner echoed this sentiment by acknowledging the intricacies of Sheridan’s character, stating that despite his tough exterior, he displays a profound sensitivity. This added depth, they agree, contributes to the beauty of his scripts.

In addition to his writing and directing, Sheridan also returns to the screen as Cody Spears. Wagner anticipated that his acting would be a standout feature in the new season, especially in the premiere episode. “He’s a really good actor… it is incredible,” she praised, suggesting that viewers would notice an extraordinary performance from him.

Both actresses are deeply invested in the program’s underlying messages, particularly how ‘Lioness’ honours the work of individuals in high-risk jobs. Wagner highlighted that telling stories about women actively serving in perilous roles resonates beyond entertainment. “I think it’s really important that we remind people — not just women, but men as well — that they’re over there fighting for a lot of different things for us and sacrificing,” she asserted.

De Oliveira, meanwhile, expressed her enthusiasm for the robust writing and strong relationships among the cast and crew. “For me, it’s the writing and the people,” she stated succinctly, emphasising what keeps her committed to the series.

With its focus on multifaceted characters and meaningful narratives, ‘Lioness’ continues to engage audiences while pushing its actors to confront challenges head-on. New episodes of the series are available for streaming on Paramount+, promising to captivate viewers with their potent storytelling and dynamic performances.