Paramount Network Taps Michael Chiklis to Star in ‘Coyote’ Series

Paramount Network has signed Michael Chiklis (The Shield) to star in its new drama series Coyote, which is set to debut in 2020.

The series follows the exploits of a longtime border patrol agent (Chiklis), who is forced to work for the same people he spent trying to keep out of America, which ultimately forces him to question his ideology and loyalties, according to network officials.

Chiklis will also serve as executive producer of the series, along with Michelle MacLaren (Game of Thrones) David Graziano (American Gods), Michael Carnes and Josh Gilbert (Mr. Woodcock); Mike Richardson and Keith Goldberg (The Umbrella Academy) and Rebecca Hobbs.

MacLaren Entertainment, Dark Horse Entertainment and Sony Pictures Television will produce the series for Paramount Network.

“We’re honored to work with Michelle MacLaren, Michael Chiklis, David Graziano and the rest of the gifted creative team on Coyote,” said Keith Cox, president of development, Paramount Network and TV Land in a statement. “The powerful, timely setting and complex characters are a perfect fit with the rest of our growing scripted slate. Coyote is befitting of the strong Paramount name.” 

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.