Paramount+’s “Tulsa King” is facing a significant pre-production hurdle. Twenty-six crew members, including Sylvester Stallone’s stunt double, were abruptly replaced just days before the start of season 4 filming, according to sources familiar with the situation. The shakeup comes amidst broader changes at Paramount, including anticipated layoffs of around 1,000 employees and the departure of creator Taylor Sheridan to NBCUniversal and Paramount.

Details surrounding the specific reasons for the crew replacements remain unclear. Sources indicate the decision was made swiftly, leaving many crew members without work just as they were preparing to resume production. The impact on the filming schedule and overall quality of the season is currently unknown.

“Tulsa King,” starring Sylvester Stallone, follows a New York mafia capo who is unexpectedly exiled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he attempts to establish a new criminal empire. The show has garnered a dedicated following since its premiere, and Stallone’s performance has been widely praised. The prospect of season 4 had generated considerable excitement among fans.

The larger context of these changes involves significant shifts within the media landscape. Taylor Sheridan’s move to NBCUniversal and Paramount’s impending layoffs reflect the ongoing restructuring and cost-cutting measures impacting major entertainment companies. Sheridan's departure marks a substantial loss for Paramount+, as he was responsible for several successful series, including “Yellowstone” and its spin-offs. The 1,000 anticipated layoffs are part of a broader effort to streamline operations and reduce expenses following the merger of Paramount Global and Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Paramount has not yet released an official statement regarding the crew changes or the impact on “Tulsa King’s” production schedule. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.