Writer accuses Yellowstone creator of copying her Sovereign Nation idea

Lauren J. Salkin is suing Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan and several affiliated entities, alleging he stole her 10+-year development of Sovereign Nation by copying its core concepts for Yellowstone. She says she submitted a completed pilot, series bible, and pitch deck to Elevate Entertainment in 2016–2017, and claims Sheridan’s team indicated he was unavailable for TV projects before Yellowstone was greenlit months later. The suit cites purported similarities in the show’s design, and HBO reportedly rejected a Sheridan pitch for Yellowstone due to these similarities. Salkin seeks an injunction, damages, profits, and a jury trial; Yellowstone aired 2018–2024 and has spawned multiple spinoffs.