Billy Bob Thornton, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse roles across film and television, has recently opened up about his experience playing the lead character in the hit series “Landman.” In a recent interview, he candidly shared his passion for the role and the challenges that come with portraying such a complex character.
At the heart of “Landman” is Thornton’s character, Tommy Norris, an abrasive petroleum landman navigating the dangerous oilfields of West Texas for a major corporation. The show, created by Taylor Sheridan, has quickly become a phenomenon for Paramount+, becoming the platform’s most-watched premiere in the past two years. Thornton describes the character of Tommy Norris as a straight-shooter who is not only tough but also deeply complex.
Thornton notes the necessity of “getting into the headspace” for the scenes where his character faces extreme peril, such as being captured and tortured by drug cartels. He describes these moments as challenging yet exhilarating, stating, “You have to definitely get in the head space for it.” He reflects on the intensity of filming these scenes where the reality of fear and desperation is palpable.
Drawing from personal life experiences, Thornton explains, “I’ve been around some pretty weird things,” allowing him to tap into an emotional reservoir that enhances his performance. His dedication to authenticity shines through, especially when these intense scenes often leave him with a lot of alone time to cultivate the emotional depth needed for the character. As he states, “If you’ve got a pillowcase over your head and people are dumping gasoline on you, it’s not hard to imagine.” He emphasizes how the conditions on set—whether it’s extreme heat or the physicality of on-screen violence—help actors immerse deeply into their roles.
The execution of “Landman” is spearheaded by Taylor Sheridan, who initially pitched the series to Thornton after a red carpet event in late 2021. Thornton recounts the honor he felt when Sheridan mentioned, “I think I have your voice… I’m gonna write this show specifically for you.” This tailored approach to storytelling not only creates a unique opportunity for Thornton but also enriches the narrative of the show.
Alongside Thornton, “Landman” features a compelling cast, including Jon Hamm, Demi Moore, and Ali Larter, each delivering standout performances that contribute to the show’s emotional core. With a solid foundation of talent, the series has found a loyal audience eager for more.
With the second season of “Landman” currently in production, Thornton expresses his enthusiasm for the new episodes. He describes the evolution of relationships among the characters as they further develop in the upcoming season. “Last year we had every episode when we started. We do not this year,” he mentions, alluding to the natural growth in narrative arcs, now that audiences are already familiar with the characters.
Thornton is especially pleased that the pressure of exposition is lifted in the new season, allowing the characters to simply be themselves. He approaches this evolution with a lighthearted attitude, jokingly stating that “this season I’m actually gonna have a pillowcase on my head the entire season… even when I’m eating.” His humor balances the weight of the intense themes the show navigates, showcasing both the gravity of the storytelling and the fun side of creating art.
As a seasoned actor with an Oscar win for “Sling Blade” and an Emmy nomination for “Fargo,” Thornton’s commitment to his craft is unwavering. He shares his excitement about the series and his desire to continue exploring the character he loves. “This is a show I’d like to work on for a while,” he asserts. “I really love the show. I love doing it, I love playing this character.”
With a mix of drama and humor, Billy Bob Thornton’s portrayal of Tommy Norris in “Landman” captivates viewers and keeps them invested in the tumultuous world of the petroleum industry. Season one is currently streaming on Paramount+, and the anticipation for what’s next is palpable among fans.
As the second season approaches, one can feel Thornton’s optimism radiating through. “I’ll be there as long as they want me,” he says, embodying a sincerity that many fans resonate with. His narrative reflects not only his dedication to the role but also a deeper commitment to storytelling, demonstrating once again that Billy Bob Thornton is a master of his craft.
From intense emotional scenes to light-hearted quips, the journey of “Landman” and Thornton’s portrayal promises to deliver a compelling experience. Fans eagerly await what’s to come, but one thing is sure: with Thornton at the helm, they are in for a memorable ride.
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