Lauren J. Salkin Files Copyright Lawsuit Against Taylor Sheridan and Paramount Over 'Yellowstone' Origins

Variety · 2026-08-22
Lauren J. Salkin Files Copyright Lawsuit Against Taylor Sheridan and Paramount Over 'Yellowstone' Origins

A major legal conflict has arisen within the entertainment industry regarding the creative origins of the hit television series *Yellowstone*. Writer Lauren J. Salkin has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against the show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan, alleging that he appropriated the core narrative and foundational concepts from her original pitch presented to studios in 2016. The complaint asserts that these elements were used without proper authorization or compensation. In addition to Sheridan, the legal action names several prominent entities involved in the production and distribution of the series as co-defendants, including 101 Studios, Paramount Global, and Elevate Entertainment. This comprehensive targeting indicates that Salkin holds not only the primary creator but also the major production houses and distributors accountable for allegedly profiting from intellectual property she claims is hers. The case highlights ongoing tensions between individual creators and large media conglomerates concerning intellectual property rights and credit attribution in high-profile television productions.