Billy Bob Thornton takes on the role of an oil company crisis manager in the upcoming series “Landman,” set to debut on Paramount+ on November 17. In the premiere episode, the character Tommy Norris highlights the complexities and perils of working in the oil and gas industry, noting, “The oil and gas industry makes $3 billion a day in pure profit. And it’s only getting bigger. But before any of that money is made, you’ve got to secure the land and manage the people. That’s my job. First part’s pretty simple. It’s the second part that can get you killed.”
The series kicks off with Norris engaged in a tense negotiation for his life, facing leaders of a Mexican drug cartel who are demanding higher compensation for mineral rights on their land. His expertise allows him to navigate these dangerous waters, but the challenges are just beginning.
“Landman” is co-created by Taylor Sheridan and Christian Wallace, drawing inspiration from the acclaimed Texas Monthly podcast, “Boomtown.” According to Paramount, this modern narrative unfolds in the bustling boomtowns of West Texas, depicting the lives of those drawn into the lucrative and often perilous world of oil rigs. It presents a dynamic contrast between roughnecks and wealthy billionaires who are not only changing the landscape of their industry but also influencing broader issues like climate change, the economy, and international relations.
The ensemble cast includes notable names like Jon Hamm, who plays Monty Miller, a prominent figure in the Texas oil scene and a close ally of Norris; Demi Moore as Cami Miller, Monty’s wife and Tommy’s confidant; Ari Larter as Angela, Norris’s ex-wife; and Jacob Lofland as Copper Norris, Tommy’s determined son. Additional cast members such as Andy Garcia and Michael Peña add further star power to the series.
Thornton recently spoke with C&I Studio about his experiences and insights related to “Landman,” hinting at an engaging exploration of the intricate challenges within the oil industry.
This upcoming series promises not only to shed light on the lucrative oil industry but also to raise awareness of its broader implications on society and the environment. It serves as a reminder of the complex balance between profit and responsibility in today’s world, blending thrilling storytelling with relevant real-world issues.
Landman holds the potential to captivate audiences, showcasing not only the allure of wealth but also the significant stakes involved in this high-pressure industry. As viewers anticipate the premiere, they can look forward to an engaging drama filled with suspense, deep characterizations, and insightful commentary on an ever-evolving field.