Honoring Lori Romero: A Tribute in Netflix’s Ransom Canyon
Netflix’s latest Western drama series, Ransom Canyon, debuted on April 17, 2025, and quickly became the platform’s most-watched show. Despite receiving mixed reviews, indicated by a Rotten Tomatoes score of 54%, the series has captured audience attention. This adaptation of Jodi Thomas’s book series, comprising eight novels and two prequels, has resonated widely with viewers.
While a second season of Ransom Canyon has not yet been confirmed by Netflix, the finale left viewers with compelling cliffhangers and numerous unanswered questions. The series’ ensemble cast stands out, blending multiple genres, including romance, murder mystery, and action/adventure. However, if the show does return for a follow-up season, it will be without the late Lori Romero, a key contributor to its production.
Remembering Lori Romero: A Talented Hair & Make-Up Artist
Her Journey in Hollywood Began in 2016
Lori Romero served as a hair stylist for Ransom Canyon until her untimely passing on January 1, 2025, at 61. Born on August 10, 1963, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where much of the series was filmed, Romero had a significant impact on the film industry since commencing her career in 2016. Her first role as a makeup artist was for the film Dead Billy.
In her obituary, it was noted that “Lori’s talent and specialization in high quality make-up and hair helped create her career in the movie industry. Her film family were a very important part of her life.”
Romero is fondly remembered by friends, family, and colleagues for her generosity and uplifting spirit. As one loved one stated, “She was everyone’s best friend and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Her laugh was infectious; when she laughed, everyone else did too.”A memorial service was held in her honor on January 18, 2025, in Albuquerque, NM.
Lori Romero’s Contributions to Film and Television
Throughout her career, Lori Romero made notable contributions as a makeup artist and hair stylist on various projects including Just Getting Started (2017), featuring Morgan Freeman and Tommy Lee Jones, and the Netflix Western film The Harder They Fall (2021). Additionally, she worked on Tom Hanks’ Apple film Finch (2021) and the recent A24 production Opus starring Ayo Edebiri and John Malkovich. Notably, many of the projects she participated in were filmed in her hometown, reinforcing her connection to Ransom Canyon. Her final film credit is set to be the upcoming Coyote vs. Acme, scheduled for release in 2026.