Zoe Saldaña is known for setting boundaries in her career, particularly concerning Taylor Sheridan’s expansive television projects. The Oscar-winning actress stars in Sheridan’s CIA drama, “Lioness,” playing the demanding role of Joe McNamara, which Saldaña claims is all she can currently manage.

Saldaña told People that the role stretches her to near limits, acknowledging that the weight of the character leaves no room for further involvement with Sheridan’s other projects. She emphasized, “I think that Joe McNamara and ‘Lioness’ is all I can handle at this time.“

The role of Joe McNamara comes with significant challenges, as Saldaña spearheads the series with a demanding workload. She explained, “I’m number one on the call sheet. First in, last out. Prepping months ahead before cameras roll. It’s already substantial work for me.“

Although Saldaña will not be seeking additional roles in Sheridan’s productions, she feels her long collaboration has cemented his trust, saying, “He knows I’m reliable, like Joe.” She further described herself as “honest,” “tough,” and “opinionated,” traits she believed have made her trustworthy in his eyes.

Throughout the three seasons of “Lioness,” Saldaña has faced immense challenges, confessing to Entertainment Weekly that she questioned her capacity to manage Joe’s role before Season 3’s debut. She noted, “It was very demanding. I wasn’t sure I could pull it off.“

Saldaña praised Sheridan for crafting Joe McNamara not solely as a female character but as a person defined by attributes and abilities. She expressed gratitude for portraying such a multifaceted role, stating, “After playing one of his female characters for three seasons, I’m honored he wrote Joe as a woman.“

Season three reached its conclusion on September 20, leaving viewers uncertain if Paramount+ will renew “Lioness” for another season. In the recent season, Joe’s perilous career brought intense personal stakes, impacting her family and marriage, while placing her in the crosshairs as a target. Saldaña revealed it has been the toughest role she’s faced, attributing part of Joe’s uniqueness to Sheridan’s writing.

Saldaña stated, “We’ve seen many stories of men like Joe. Writing that transcends gender and race by focusing on merit broadens actor opportunities.” Her comments underscore appreciation for Sheridan’s skill in scripting strong female leads.