AUSTIN, Texas — Renowned screenwriter, director and Texas native Taylor Sheridan will deliver the keynote address at The University of Texas at Austin’s 142nd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 10. The ceremony, expected to draw more than 50,000 attendees, will be held at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on the University campus.
Sheridan is an Academy Award-nominated screenwriter, an Emmy-nominated producer and the creator, director, writer and executive producer of several record-breaking television series, including “Yellowstone,” “Mayor of Kingstown,” “Tulsa King,” “1883,” “Lioness” and “Landman.” His work has been widely acclaimed for its portrayal of the American frontier, as well as Indigenous and rural communities.
“As a native Texan and a visionary storyteller, Taylor Sheridan has redefined the modern Western genre while remaining deeply connected to the spirit and resilience of our great state,” said UT interim President Jim Davis. “His journey to the top of the entertainment field is a testament to the power of hard work, creativity and staying true to one’s roots — values that resonate deeply with Longhorn Nation. We are thrilled to welcome him to the Forty Acres as this year’s ceremony speaker.”
Before rising to prominence in Hollywood, Sheridan was raised in Texas, spending most of his youth on a ranch — an experience that would shape his interest in Western storytelling. He has remained connected to his Texas roots and the state’s film industry, with many of his productions featuring Texas locations. Sheridan also owns and operates two Texas ranches, including the legendary Four Sixes (6666) Ranch.
“It’s a tremendous honor to be invited to speak at the UT Austin commencement,” Sheridan said. “This University has long been known to champion excellence, integrity and bold ideas, and I’m excited to celebrate the Class of 2025 as they step into the next chapter of their lives.”
Beyond his contributions to entertainment, Sheridan is an advocate for the Texas film industry. He has spoken to state legislative committees on the need to expand investment in the Texas film and television tax incentive program, which the Texas Legislature has since implemented. His productions alone have generated thousands of jobs for Texans and injected hundreds of millions of dollars into the state economy.
Sheridan made his debut as a writer/director with his critically acclaimed film “Wind River,” earning Best Director honors at the Cannes Film Festival. He previously wrote “Hell or High Water,” which was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. He currently has numerous projects in various stages of production, including “The Madison,” which is partially filmed in Texas and set to debut later this year.
In 2021, Sheridan was inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame for his contributions to Western heritage and culture. He currently lives in Weatherford, Texas, with his family.
This year’s commencement ceremony will recognize more than 10,000 graduates from 17 degree-granting colleges and schools. In addition to Sheridan’s remarks, the ceremony will feature performances from UT student musicians, drone shows and a fireworks finale.
