Story perspectives

Billy Bob Thornton Leads Sheridan's Paramount+ Oil Drama ‘Landman’

7/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Taylor Sheridan pitched Paramount+ drama Landman to Billy Bob Thornton, modeling the lead on his 2003 Bad Santa role and writing fixer Tommy Norris to match Thornton’s abrasive voice.
Thornton said the role feels like worn-in pants, that scripts arrive during production, and that series became an international hit in Uganda, Australia and beyond.
Sheridan said a shooting in Odessa, Texas, prompted him to call an oil-field friend, sparking series concept.

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Story summary

Taylor Sheridan pitched Paramount+ drama Landman to Billy Bob Thornton, modeling the lead on his 2003 Bad Santa role and writing fixer Tommy Norris to match Thornton’s abrasive voice.
Thornton said the role feels like worn-in pants, that scripts arrive during production, and that series became an international hit in Uganda, Australia and beyond.
Sheridan said a shooting in Odessa, Texas, prompted him to call an oil-field friend, sparking series concept.