Odette Annable Teases Taylor Sheridan Collaboration After Kentucky Roses

Odette Annable is stepping into a whole new arena—and not just the one at Churchill Downs. In a recent sit-down with DECIDER, the actress opened up about her first-ever Hallmark Channel movie, Kentucky Roses, what it was really like filming at the iconic Kentucky Derby location, her hopes of joining the Taylor Sheridan universe, and even the possibility of starring in a rom-com alongside her husband, Dave Annable.

From Derby fashion and hidden speakeasies to Gilmore Girls loyalty debates and Yellowstone spoilers, Annable’s latest chapter is packed with heart, ambition, and just the right amount of Southern sparkle.

Odette Annable’s Hallmark Debut Is a Full-On Derby Fantasy

For someone who’d never attended the Kentucky Derby in person, Odette Annable dove headfirst into the culture, community, and couture of Churchill Downs. Before signing onto Kentucky Roses, her experience with the Derby was basically just what she’d seen on TV.

But after reading the script, she was hooked. Annable admitted she didn’t know much about the Derby’s deep-rooted traditions before filming.

What drew her in? The romance, the horses, the history, the fashion, and the grandeur of Churchill Downs. Plus, that signature Hallmark touch.

She was especially taken by the multi-generational love story at the film’s core. Set against one of America’s most iconic sporting events, the movie weaves together past and present through fashion, family legacy, and new romance.

For Annable, it felt bigger than a standard rom-com. It’s a story about heritage and figuring out where you fit in.

The fashion alone nearly stole the show. From bold, modern Derby looks to vintage nods to the 1930s, Annable loved every wardrobe change.

She even joked about wanting to keep everything. And honestly, who wouldn’t?

The Derby is famous for fascinators, dramatic silhouettes, and unapologetic style choices.

• Statement fascinators
• Vintage-inspired gowns
• Florals that mirror the roses of Churchill Downs
• Modern Southern elegance with a bold twist

According to Annable, anything goes at the Derby—minimal chic or head-turning drama. It’s all about owning your look, whatever that means to you.

Behind the Scenes at Churchill Downs

Filming at Churchill Downs wasn’t just a logistical win—it was an emotional one. Annable described arriving on set before sunrise, hearing the horses breathe and gallop across the fields.

It was immersive, almost sacred. What surprised her most was discovering that Churchill Downs operates like its own self-contained world.

There’s a front side for the glamour and spectacle, and then there’s the back side, where the real day-to-day life of horse trainers and workers unfolds.

Annable learned a lot:

• Horse trainers and workers live on the grounds
• There’s a church and a school on-site
• Hidden speakeasies are tucked throughout the property

Her character, Sadie, works in the greenhouse and comes from a lineage deeply connected to Churchill Downs. An aspiring florist itching to branch out, Sadie’s journey mirrors Annable’s own—stepping into something new while still honoring tradition.

Maybe the most surreal part of filming was having the legendary venue nearly to themselves. Annable knows that when she returns for the actual Derby, the energy will be totally different—thousands of spectators, the roar of the crowd, and what people call the most exciting two minutes in sports.

And yes, she’s ready for the full experience: mint julep in hand, bets placed, dressed to the nines.

Andrew Walker, Gregg Henry, and an A-Team Cast

Joining the Hallmark family can be daunting. Annable had a secret weapon: seasoned Hallmark favorite Andrew Walker as her co-star.

Annable described Walker as a total pro—someone who just gets the rhythm and tone of a Hallmark romance. She felt supported and welcomed right from the start, crediting him with making her transition into the network seamless.

The easy banter between them translated directly onscreen, giving their romance a natural charm. According to Annable, there was no ego, no stiffness—just smooth sailing from day one.

Then there was Gregg Henry, who plays the CEO of Churchill Downs in the film. Fans of Gilmore Girls will instantly recognize him as Logan Huntzberger’s formidable father.

Annable, a longtime fan of the series, appreciated working alongside such a polished performer. She even revealed her loyalty in the eternal Team Dean vs. Team Jess vs. Team Logan debate—and she’s firmly Team Dean.

It’s clear that Kentucky Roses assembled a powerhouse ensemble. Annable doesn’t take that lightly.

Will Odette Join the Taylor Sheridan Universe?

If Hallmark is one exciting new chapter, the gritty world of Taylor Sheridan might be another. Annable’s husband, Dave Annable, has already planted his flag in Sheridan territory, appearing in both Yellowstone and Lioness.

Annable revealed that Taylor Sheridan holds a special place in her heart. She considers him a mentor, and the two have briefly discussed the possibility of her appearing in one of his projects.

For fans wondering if she could step into the Sheridan-verse, the door isn’t closed. In fact, it sounds quietly open.

Annable expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities her husband has had, especially on Lioness, which she described as bold and powerful storytelling. While Dave’s Yellowstone fate was sealed early—yes, he died in the first episode—fans famously launched a Save Dave campaign in hopes of his return.

Stranger things have happened in television. With Season 3 of Lioness on the horizon, the Annables remain deeply connected to the Sheridan creative family.

A Real-Life Rom-Com in the Making?

Hallmark might want to start developing this pitch immediately.

When asked what a Hallmark movie about her own love story would be called, Annable jokingly suggested Train Wrecks. But beneath the humor is a genuine idea.

She and Dave have talked about starring in their own romantic comedy. They even have a few ideas brewing.

Given Hallmark’s appetite for charming, heartfelt love stories with built-in chemistry, this feels less like wishful thinking and more like an inevitability. Imagine the built-in audience appeal:

• Real-life married couple chemistry
• Hollywood-meets-heartland storyline potential
• Romance rooted in genuine history

If Kentucky Roses proves anything, it’s that Annable thrives in a world of sweeping romance and meaningful connections. Pair that with Dave’s rugged charm, and you’ve got appointment television waiting to happen.

The Energy of the Derby and What Comes Next

Maybe the most striking thing from Annable’s conversation is how energized she feels by this moment in her career. Whether it’s embracing bold Derby fashion, bonding with castmates, or contemplating a leap into the Sheridan-verse, she seems wide open to whatever comes next.

More Than Just Two Minutes

The Kentucky Derby is famous for its two-minute race. For Annable, though, this whole experience has been about so much more than just a quick thrill.

It’s about community. It’s about legacy, friendship, and honestly, rediscovering a bit of joy in storytelling.

Kentucky Roses isn’t just her first Hallmark film. It’s a gateway—new audiences, new genres, and maybe even some unexpected collaborations.

From mint juleps and fascinators to high-stakes drama out on the Western frontier, Odette Annable seems pretty ready to dive in and try it all.