Zoe Saldaña's Intense 'Lioness' Training Fuels Season 3

Actress Zoe Saldaña embraced an elevated level of physical training for the third season of "Lioness," motivated by critics who doubted her character's physical prowess. Saldaña, who stands at 5-foot-6, aimed to build substantial muscle to embody CIA operative Joe McNamara, a role that demanded heightened intensity for the show's most combat-heavy season.

Her preparation began in the summer of 2025, shortly after she secured an Academy Award. "Lioness" creator Taylor Sheridan specifically requested Saldaña to "build more muscle" and transform Joe into a "machine." This directive sent Saldaña to Italy, where she hired a private trainer to meticulously manage her nutrition and strength-building regimen throughout her vacation.

Saldaña, a former dancer, underwent rigorous training, including handgun and semi-automatic weapon refreshers, to ensure authenticity for the demanding role. She shared that while the on-screen montage features news headlines for motivation, her personal workout playlists lean towards pop artists like Ariana Grande and Madonna. The actress emphasized that weight training is crucial for women, providing confidence and the ability to tackle difficult tasks, with building muscle for Joe serving as a significant personal inspiration.