Michelle Pfeiffer opens up on emotional role in 'The Madison' and working with Kurt Russell

Michelle Pfeiffer has revealed she joined Paramount+’s neo-Western series The Madison without ever reading a script, trusting creator Taylor Sheridan’s track record.

The 67-year-old actress leads the show as Stacy Clyburn, a family matriarch grappling with grief after the death of her husband, Preston Clyburn, played by Kurt Russell. 

Pfeiffer described her decision as “a leap of faith” based on Sheridan’s success with Yellowstone and Tulsa King.

“Taylor reached out to me and said he had an idea and would like to meet me,” Pfeiffer told Variety. “So I went to his ranch in Texas, had a wonderful evening meeting people. He talked about the character’s arc and the concept of the show, very broadly. I said, ‘When could I read something?’ He said, ‘I’d like to know who I’m writing for before I start writing after you commit.’”

After weeks of discussion, Pfeiffer realized she had to either “take a leap of faith or take a pass,” ultimately choosing the former.

Playing Stacy posed an emotional challenge, as the first season covers just six days in the character’s life. 

“I don’t consider myself method. That would be exhausting and boring,” Pfeiffer said. 

“But the first season takes place over six days. She’s in the same state of mind, so you kind of enter into that and stay there. It’s always there gnawing at you a little bit.”

Pfeiffer also praised working with Kurt Russell again, recalling their chemistry on the set of 1988’s Tequila Sunrise. 

“He became my comrade-in-arms, my protector, my confidant, my court jester. He brings a tremendous amount of joy every day. Acting with him was effortless.”

The Madison premieres on Paramount+ later this year.