Behind the Scenes: Billy Bob Thornton’s Gritty Journey into Texas Oil Country
In the heart of West Texas, where oil derricks pierce the horizon, and fortunes rise and fall like desert dust, Billy Bob Thornton is making waves in Paramount+’s newest hit series, “Landman.”
The show, which premiered this year, offers viewers an unflinching look into the high-stakes world of America’s oil industry, where every day brings new challenges and potential millions.
Thornton stars as Tommy Norris, a crisis management specialist who navigates the treacherous waters of land deals, family dynamics, and corporate politics. The 69-year-old actor brings a raw authenticity to the role, deliberately maintaining an unkempt appearance that speaks volumes about his character’s priorities.
“I look older in ‘Landman’ than in real life,” Thornton reveals. “Tommy barely combs his hair, never shaves. He’s always a mess with dirt on his hands and face.”
This attention to detail extends to every aspect of his performance, right down to how he wears his jeans low on his hips – a detail that became a running joke on set with co-star Ali Larter, who plays his ex-wife Angela.
Based on Christian Wallace’s popular “Boomtown” podcast, the show doesn’t shy away from controversial topics. “The oil and gas industry makes $3 billion a day in pure profit—and it’s only getting bigger,” Thornton’s character states in the series. But beyond the numbers, “Landman” explores the human cost of this lucrative business.
Larter’s character Angela arrives in episode three wearing sky-high heels and a purple gown that turns heads at the Midland airport, bringing emotional depth to the story.
“Taylor creates dynamic, powerful women,” she says, praising series creator Taylor Sheridan. “I’ve never gotten to play someone who’s this emotionally complex and who lets it all hang out.”
The show masterfully balances high drama with moments of levity. Thornton appreciates this approach, noting, “I’m pleased that Taylor added humor to the show. People aren’t just melancholy or mad every minute of their lives or in danger every moment—there are lighter moments in this.”
At its core, “Landman” is more than just another show about the oil industry. It’s a story about family, redemption, and the price of ambition. The series explores how the high-stakes world of oil affects personal relationships and family dynamics. As Larter puts it, “Every story comes down to love always–it’s what motivates us; it’s the greatest motivating factor in anyone’s life.”
The show features an impressive ensemble cast, including Jon Hamm and Demi Moore, adding extra star power to an already compelling narrative. Moore’s appearance marks a reunion with Thornton, returning to their days on “Indecent Proposal” in 1993.
Filming in the harsh Texas environment adds another layer of authenticity to the production. The show captures the gritty reality of life in an oil country, where fortunes can change as quickly as the weather.
As Thornton’s character notes, “Before any of that money is made, you got to secure the land and manage the people. That’s my job. The first part is pretty simple, but the second can kill you.”
“Landman” continues to air new episodes on Sundays on Paramount+, offering viewers a window into a world where billions are made and lost in the blink of an eye and where family ties are tested against the backdrop of America’s modern oil boom.