1923’s Brian Geraghty describes the show’s intense cowboy camp

Taylor Sheridan doesn’t pull punches.

The creator of the 1923 Yellowstone prequel series, starring Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, introduces viewers to a whole new generation of the Dutton family – and Sheridan wanted to make sure everyone played the part.

Brian Geraghty, who plays Zane Davis, the Dutton Ranch foreman in 1923, tells E! News that the cast went through the mangle.

“We were all tortured at a two-week cowboy camp,” revealed Geraghty. “So we had to have ups and downs together before we started, which was really good for the bond. We would all be terrible and make progress the next day. We all have to be vulnerable. As an adult, it’s not easy to learn a new skill.”

Geraghty said working with Sheridan, who also founded Yellowstone, was no laughing matter. “He’s a cowboy,” Geraghty said. “Not only do you have to ride a horse, but you have to look like you know what you’re doing.”