Taylor Sheridan’s latest series, Landman, premiering on Paramount+, dives deep into the West Texas oil industry, capturing both its gritty challenges and the unique lifestyle of those working in the oil patch. Writer and producer Christian Wallace, whose 2019 podcast Boomtown inspired the show, recently shared insights into the making of Landman and the collaboration with Sheridan.
From Boomtown to Landman
When asked about the inspiration behind Landman, Wallace recalled how Boomtown laid the groundwork. The 2019 podcast, which explored the highs and lows of the West Texas oil boom, ignited Wallace’s passion for storytelling within this industry. “It’s been a slow build over five years,” Wallace noted, “but it’s such a rich world. There are so many stories to be told out there.”
Capturing Authenticity
For Wallace, it was crucial that Landman authentically represent West Texas culture. Having worked as a roughneck for a year, he knew the ins and outs of the lifestyle and brought these experiences to the series. “Being from West Texas, we wanted to bring that world to an audience that maybe has never thought about it before,” he explained. Details like high school football games and local community scenes were essential to making the world of Landman feel genuine.
Collaborating with Taylor Sheridan
The collaboration between Wallace and Sheridan was a long and meaningful process. “We talked for about two years before Taylor started writing,” Wallace said. “I was telling him stories from my uncle who works in the patch, things I had experienced firsthand.” This open dialogue allowed them to build characters that felt real. “There’s a direct quote from my uncle in one of the episodes,” Wallace added, sharing the surreal experience of hearing Billy Bob Thornton deliver his uncle’s words on screen.
Casting the Right Fit
Casting was a key aspect of bringing Landman to life, especially with Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris. “Taylor knew from the beginning that he wanted Billy Bob Thornton,” Wallace shared, noting that Thornton’s mix of charisma and grit made him the ideal choice for Tommy. Casting Jacob Lofland as Cooper Norris, Tommy’s son, and Michelle Randolph as his daughter Ainsley was also a careful process. “Jacob was just the right fit, and Michelle is fantastic as Ainsley,” Wallace said, praising how the actors truly embodied their characters.
A Blend of Drama and Humor
One thing Wallace is especially excited about is the balance of humor with the intense drama in Landman. “Billy is so funny, and I think that’s one thing viewers may not expect,” he said. “It isn’t a full drama, but it’s Billy Bob Thornton in an oil drama.” This humor, interwoven with tension, gives Landman a unique tone that sets it apart from other industry dramas.
What to Expect
Without giving too much away, Wallace teased that the series only grows in complexity and depth as it progresses. “If you like the pilot, you’re going to like the show,” he promised. Wallace hinted that viewers will get to know Jon Hamm and Demi Moore’s characters in later episodes, building anticipation for these pivotal roles.
For Wallace, Landman isn’t just a series about oil; it’s about the people who live and breathe the industry. By capturing both the rugged challenges and the unexpected humor of the oil fields, Wallace and Sheridan have created a series that’s poised to captivate and surprise.
Landman premieres November 17 on Paramount+, and if you love a show with grit, humor, and heart, this one’s a must-watch.