Minka Kelly, known for her roles in *Friday Night Lights* and *The Roommate*, recently revealed details about her salary negotiations for her role in Netflix’s new western romance series, *Ransom Canyon*. While starring alongside Josh Duhamel, Kelly successfully advocated for pay parity, highlighting Netflix’s proactive approach to bridging the gender pay gap in the entertainment industry.
Kelly shared her experience with *Deadline*, expressing her gratitude towards Netflix for their receptiveness to her concerns. She stated that the negotiations were relatively smooth, emphasizing Netflix’s commitment to fair compensation regardless of gender. While she didn’t achieve complete salary equality with Duhamel, the outcome was significantly better than many actresses experience. This positive experience underscores a growing trend within the industry to address the long-standing issue of pay disparity between male and female actors.
In *Ransom Canyon*, Kelly plays Quinn O’Grady, a dancehall owner and longtime friend to Duhamel’s character, Staten Kirkland. The series, based on Jodi Thomas’s books, centers around three competing ranching families in Texas, filled with love triangles, conflicts, and secrets. The show has drawn comparisons to *Yellowstone*, but Kelly has emphasized its unique storyline and character development. She even jokingly described her character as “Lyla Garrity 20 years later,” referencing her *Friday Night Lights* role, suggesting a subtle continuation of that character’s spirit.
Duhamel, meanwhile, highlighted the show’s relatable aspects, focusing on the intricate family dynamics and long-standing tensions between the ranching families. He emphasized the complexities of unresolved historical conflicts impacting the present-day relationships. The series promises a compelling blend of romance, family drama, and the challenges of maintaining legacy in a small town.
*Ransom Canyon* is just one of many exciting shows premiering this year. Other notable releases include *Government Cheese* (AppleTV+), a surrealist family comedy; *Ghost Adventures* (Discovery), featuring paranormal investigations; and *Expedition Files* (Discovery), exploring unexplained mysteries. The lineup also includes returning favorites like *Law & Order: Organized Crime* (Peacock), *Leverage: Redemption* (Prime Video), and many more, offering diverse genres and captivating storylines for viewers.
The release of *Ransom Canyon* offers more than just a new western romance. It serves as a positive example of how the entertainment industry is evolving, acknowledging and actively working to address the issue of unequal pay for women. Minka Kelly’s experience provides a hopeful sign for future negotiations and the broader fight for gender equality in Hollywood.
