AUSTIN, Texas — The heat is on as “Fire Country” approaches its Season 3 finale, and fans are in for a treat with only two episodes left. This week’s episode will introduce characters from the spin-off series “Sheriff Country,” expanding the show’s universe.

Max Thieriot, the creator and star of “Fire Country,” chatted with We Are Austin’s Trevor Scott about the upcoming episodes and introduction of Sheriff Country.

“It’s what law enforcement looks like in a small town. You’ve come to make an arrest. You know both people involved in this dispute, and how you deal with that situation when you’re the Sherriff in town,” said Thieriot. “[It’s] a lot of fun. A lot of great mystery. Different action than Fire Country but in the same tone and in the same world,” he explained.

Adding to the excitement, country music sensation Jelly Roll will guest star in next week’s episode. Thieriot, a known fan of country music, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration. “The guy has this magnetic energy and he’s also just so inspiring,” he said.

“You look at what he’s done and what’s he’s accomplished and how humble and how grateful he is for all of it– such a positive dude. He carries that same energy and same joy everywhere he goes,” added Thieriot. “The guy that you see is the guy that you’re going to get.”

Thieriot also directed the first hour of the special two-hour season finale, which promises to end with a blaze of action.

Don’t miss the all-new episode of “Fire Country” Friday at 8 p.m. on CBS Austin and streaming on Paramount Plus.