Billy Bob Thornton stars in Landman, a contemporary western created by Taylor Sheridan, who wrote the lead role specifically for him.
Thornton’s character, Tommy, is a crisis manager for an oil company in West Texas, navigating the complex world of the oil and gas industry.
The series, based on the Boomtown podcast, explores the industry’s human side, showcasing both its controversial aspects and the people involved, from roughnecks to billionaires.
Thornton was drawn to the role because the show doesn’t take a one-sided stance on oil’s impact, presenting both arguments for and against it.
The series balances drama with humor, reflecting the ups and downs of life, especially in Tommy’s personal and professional life, where he clashes with his ex-wife, Angela (Ali Larter), and his son, Cooper (Jacob Lofland).
Thornton sees his character as weary yet unable to escape his lifestyle, dealing with complex relationships and difficult choices.
The cast also includes Jon Hamm, Demi Moore, Michelle Randolph, and Michael Peña.
Landman premieres with two episodes on Sunday, and Thornton emphasized the importance of depicting life’s complexities without agenda, providing both humor and heart in its storytelling.
