Patrick J Adams Embraces 'Uncomfortable' New Role in Taylor Sheridan's Western Drama
Patrick J Adams, best known for his role as Michael James Ross alongside Meghan Markle in the hit legal drama Suits, has opened up about his starkly different and "uncomfortable" new part in the contemporary Western series The Madison. The show, created by Yellowstone mastermind Taylor Sheridan, premiered on Paramount+ on March 14, 2026, marking a significant departure from Adams' previous work.
A Far Cry from Suits: Adams' Character Struggles in Rural Montana
In an exclusive interview at the London premiere, Adams revealed insights into his character, Russell, an investment banker from New York who relocates to rural Montana with his wife Paige, played by Elle Chapman. The series follows the Clyburn family, led by matriarch Stacy Clyburn (Michelle Pfeiffer) and her husband Preston (Kurt Russell), as they move to a ranch by the Montana River after a tragic loss. Adams described Russell as a city-dweller grappling with the harsh realities of wilderness life, a role that required him to step out of his comfort zone.
"My first impression was how cool it is that he's there for this journey," Adams told Reach, as reported by the Express. "Because, at first I was like, this seems like a guy who'd probably be like 'I'm gonna stay home and work. You go do your thing in Montana'. So I was just really impressed that he showed up no matter what, to be this uncomfortable in an unfamiliar environment."
Contrasting Worlds: From Toronto Studio to Montana's Natural Beauty
Adams highlighted the dramatic shift from his Suits days, where he filmed in a studio on the outskirts of Toronto, to the breathtaking landscapes of Montana. "Every day, to drive through the most beautiful state in the world and just be by this river all day, it's unspeakably beautiful," he reminisced. "And inspiring, it does so much of the work for you. If you ever feel uninspired or you're not sure how you feel, you just look around and look at the sky and look at the mountains and watch the sun go down. That's all you need, it's a magical place."
The first three episodes, released on March 14, depict Russell and Paige's efforts to strengthen their bond while navigating the challenges of their new surroundings, often with humorous results. This is a stark contrast to Adams' portrayal of the suave, unlicensed solicitor in Suits, where he starred alongside Meghan Markle's Rachel Elizabeth Zane for seven seasons.
Taylor Sheridan's Vision and Series Renewal
The Madison, a six-part series, has already garnered attention for its expansive family drama and Sheridan's signature storytelling. Fans can look forward to another trio of episodes arriving in a week's time, with the show already renewed and its second series filmed. This ensures that the Clyburns' saga will continue, offering viewers more of the gripping narrative set against Montana's scenic backdrop.
Adams expressed admiration for his character's dedication, noting, "But never is there a doubt that he's gonna do it, because he loves these people and he's gonna show up for them. Whatever the seed of that was, I had a lot of respect for that." This sentiment reflects the show's themes of family resilience and adaptation, core elements in Sheridan's acclaimed body of work.
