James Jordan is a master of his craft, bringing depth and authenticity to every role he takes on. While he may not always be in the spotlight, his performances consistently stand out, especially in Taylor Sheridan’s projects. From villains to comic relief, Jordan has proven his versatility time and again. Here’s a deeper dive into my five favourite James Jordan characters, complete with the episodes and seasons where you can catch him in action.
(In no particular order)
1. Pete Mickens in Wind River (2017)

Jordan’s portrayal of Pete Mickens in Wind River is one of his most haunting performances. As a security guard at an oil drilling site, Pete is revealed to be the story’s primary antagonist, responsible for heinous crimes that drive the film’s tension-filled climax. Jordan brings a disturbing realism to this character, making Pete both repugnant and terrifyingly believable. His performance adds weight to the film’s exploration of justice and survival in an unforgiving environment.
- Why it stands out: Pete’s character is integral to the plot twist, and Jordan’s nuanced performance ensures that viewers remember him long after the credits roll.
2. Steve Hendon in Yellowstone (Seasons 1–4)
In Yellowstone, James Jordan plays Steve Hendon, a livestock agent who works closely with the Dutton family. Hendon is loyal but sometimes overly aggressive, embodying the tough, no-nonsense attitude required for survival in Montana’s rugged ranching world. His most notable storyline occurs in Season 3, Episode 2 (“Freight Trains and Monsters”) when he accidentally kills two men accused of beating a barrel racer. This incident highlights his impulsive nature and creates moral dilemmas for Jamie Dutton.

- Episodes to watch: Hendon appears in 11 episodes across Seasons 1–4, with his major arc unfolding in Season 3.
- Why it stands out: Hendon’s character adds complexity to the Duttons’ world, showing how loyalty can sometimes lead to devastating consequences.
3. Two Cups in Special Ops: Lioness (Seasons 1–2)

In Special Ops: Lioness, Jordan plays Two Cups, a seasoned CIA operative who is part of Joe McNamara’s elite team. His character provides much-needed levity amidst the high-stakes missions, balancing humor with professionalism. Two Cups’ camaraderie with his team highlights Jordan’s ability to bring warmth and relatability to intense narratives.
- Episodes to watch: Two Cups appears throughout both seasons of Special Ops: Lioness (2023–2024), contributing significantly to the team dynamic.
- Why it stands out: This role showcases Jordan’s versatility as he transitions from darker characters to someone who brings humor and heart to a tense spy thriller.
4.6. Dale Bradley in Landman (Season 1)
Jordan’s latest role as Dale Bradley in Landman adds another layer to his impressive repertoire. Dale is a petroleum engineer navigating moral dilemmas within West Texas’ oil industry while also adjusting to life changes when Tommy Norris’ teenage daughter moves into their shared home. Dale serves as both comic relief and an emotional anchor for some of the show’s heavier themes.
Why it stands out: Dale showcases Jordan’s ability to balance humor with depth as he navigates ethical challenges while maintaining his role as one of Tommy’s closest confidants. Cookie in 1883 (Episodes 6–9)
Episodes to watch: Dale Bradley is a main character throughout Season 1 (2024).
5. Ed Simmons in Mayor of Kingstown (Season 1)
In Mayor of Kingstown, Jordan portrays Ed Simmons, a brutal prison guard who understands the delicate balance of power between inmates and law enforcement. Ed often turns a blind eye—or even participates—in questionable activities within Kingstown Prison. His provocations contribute to deadly turmoil, highlighting the show’s central theme of moral ambiguity.

- Episodes to watch: Ed Simmons plays a key role throughout Season 1 (2021), where his actions set off significant events within the prison system.
- Why it stands out: Ed represents the harsh realities of life inside Kingstown Prison, and Jordan delivers a performance that feels raw and authentic.
Favourite James Jordan character?
So who is my actual favourite James Jordan character? I enjoy him a lot in Special Ops, even though he seems out of shape for the job. In Mayor Of Kingstown he was more annoying than anything, but that is a skill as an actor. But in the end, I think I will go with Landman.
James Jordan has carved out a niche as one of Taylor Sheridan’s go-to actors for complex supporting roles. Whether he’s playing a villain like Pete Mickens or adding humour as Cookie or Two Cups, Jordan consistently elevates every project he joins. His ability to bring depth and humanity—even to morally ambiguous characters—is what makes him such a standout performer.
If you’re already a fan of Taylor Sheridan’s work or just discovering James Jordan’s talent, these roles are must-watches that showcase why he’s become such an integral part of Sheridan’s storytelling universe.
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