The American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL) recently held a watch party in Fort Worth, Texas, where energy industry executives gathered to view the premiere episodes of Taylor Sheridan’s new series, ‘Landman.’ Fort Worth serves as both the headquarters for the AAPL and a filming location for the show, highlighting the city’s deep connections to the oil and gas sector.
Before the lights dimmed to screen the series at 7:45 p.m., the conference room was adorned with miniature pumpjacks, setting the scene for the executives in attendance. Following the viewing, AAPL board member Jason Maloy expressed enthusiasm for the series, stating it provides a more comprehensive understanding of what a landman truly does. For many, the term ‘landman’ may be unfamiliar; these professionals facilitate negotiations between energy companies, landowners, and the community, serving a vital role within the industry.
Nancy McCaskell, the AAPL president, outlined the diverse responsibilities of a landman, which span legal negotiations, public record research, conflict resolution, and emergency responses, emphasizing the importance of strong communication skills in this line of work. “We’re the public face most people see when we start on new energy discoveries,” she explained, highlighting the challenging nature of the job as it often involves navigating sensitive discussions and difficult negotiations.
While the show borrows from the reality of land management, McCaskell noted that it amplifies the drama—a common feature of the profession. “We have a lot of drama,” she acknowledged, with reference to the intense situations that can arise during the job. The scenic shots from Fort Worth throughout the series serve as a tribute to the city, showcasing its landmarks including the downtown skyline and TCU’s athletic complex, while also depicting daily operations within the AAPL office.
Sheridan, a native of Fort Worth and famed creator of ‘Yellowstone,’ has brought a piece of his hometown to the screen, helping to elevate recognition of the landman profession. Maloy remarked on how the series illustrates the day-to-day realities of landmen, albeit with a Hollywood twist featuring more explosive action than typically occurs in real life.
In a bid to enhance viewer understanding of the series, AAPL will launch a companion podcast every Thursday, providing insights into what the show depicts accurately versus what is exaggerated for entertainment.
This watch party not only celebrates the premiere of ‘Landman’ but also underscores the integral role of Fort Worth in the narrative of the oil and gas industry, paving the way for greater appreciation of the skilled professionals who work behind the scenes. As the series continues, it may foster an even deeper connection between audiences and the real-world challenges faced by landmen.
In summary, ‘Landman’ aims to unveil the complex dynamics of land management while illuminating Fort Worth’s significance in the energy sector, and the companion podcast promises to enrich the viewing experience, enhancing public knowledge about this essential industry.