Leverage: Redemption Season 3 Brings Back a Fan-Favorite Grifter: Jeri Ryan Dishes on Tara Cole’s Epic Return!

Buckle up, Leverage fans, because season 3 of Leverage: Redemption just pulled off a heist of our hearts! In episode 5, “The Grand Complication Job,” the slick and sassy Tara Cole, played by Star Trek legend Jeri Ryan, struts back into the con game. This time, she’s teaming up with Sophie Devereaux (Gina Bellman) to outsmart a crafty villain, Alexandra Bligh (Lucy Taylor), who kidnaps Sophie. But is Bligh down for the count? And will Tara stick around for more cons? Ryan spilled all the tea in a juicy interview, and we’re here to unpack why her return is pure gold!

Tara Cole’s Comeback: A Family Reunion with a Side of Snark

Picture this: New Orleans, a buzzing Leverage: Redemption set, and Jeri Ryan walking in like she never left. Tara Cole, the bold grifter with a knack for playing any role, crashes back into the Leverage universe to help Sophie out of a sticky situation. The episode sees Tara and Sophie facing off against Bligh, a scheming baddie who’s nabbed Sophie. Spoiler alert: Tara’s quick thinking saves the day, proving she’s still got that grifter swagger.

In a chat with ScreenRant, Ryan couldn’t hide her excitement about slipping back into Tara’s boots. “Leverage is one of my all-time favorite gigs,” she gushed. “The show, the people, the character—it’s like a family reunion!” Having filmed the original Leverage in Portland, Ryan loved reuniting with old crew pals in New Orleans. And Tara? She’s a “badass” with a sharp tongue and endless disguises, making her a blast to play. Ryan’s grin was practically audible when she said, “You never know who Tara’s gonna be next—that’s the fun of it!”

What’s the Deal with Tara and Sophie?

Tara and Sophie go way back, and their bond is a highlight of Leverage: Redemption season 3. Ryan hinted that these two have stayed tight, catching up whenever their globe-trotting cons allow. “There’s a mutual respect and love there,” she said, noting Tara’s history with the whole Leverage crew. Back in the original series, Tara stepped in for Sophie during a brief hiatus, bringing her money-hungry grifter style to the team. Sure, her cash-focused vibes raised some eyebrows, but she earned everyone’s trust with her skills and loyalty.

This time, Tara’s return is all about supporting Sophie in a pinch. But don’t expect a deep dive into her off-screen adventures—Ryan laughed that Tara’s just been “out doing her thing.” And with Bligh behind bars (for now), the door’s wide open for more Tara shenanigans. Could she pop up again? Ryan’s all in, joking that she might need to “bug” executive producer Dean Devlin for another invite. “I love this show and these people,” she said. “I’d jump at the chance to come back!”

Why Tara’s Return Rocks Leverage: Redemption

Tara’s comeback isn’t just a treat for longtime fans—it’s a masterclass in how to do a revival right. Leverage: Redemption on Prime Video keeps the original’s charm while mixing in fresh faces like Harry Wilson (Noah Wyle) and Breanna Casey (Aleyse Shannon). Tara’s episode leans into what we love: clever cons, tight-knit team vibes, and a sprinkle of nostalgia. Her dynamic with Sophie adds emotional heft, while her grifter antics keep the action popping.

The Leverage universe has a knack for bringing back familiar faces—think guest stars like Giancarlo Esposito or Rick Hoffman from the original run. Ryan’s return shows how to weave in a fan-favorite without stealing the spotlight. And with her infectious enthusiasm, it’s clear Tara Cole could easily slide into more episodes if season 4 gets the green light.

Our Take: Tara Cole Steals the Show (Again!)

Jeri Ryan as Tara Cole is like a shot of espresso in Leverage: Redemption—bold, energizing, and impossible to ignore. Her return in season 3 is a love letter to fans, blending snarky humor, heart, and high-stakes cons. We’re obsessed with Tara’s unpredictable edge and her ride-or-die bond with Sophie. The fact that Ryan’s having the time of her life just makes it sweeter. Whether Tara’s back for one episode or more, she’s proof that Leverage: Redemption knows how to keep the party going. Here’s hoping Dean Devlin’s got her number on speed dial for season 4!