Sam Elliott Joins Billy Bob Thornton in Explosive Second Season of Hit Series Landman

The hit Paramount+ series Landman is adding major star power for its second season. Veteran actor Sam Elliott has joined the cast in a pivotal new role. He will play T.L. Norris, the estranged father of Billy Bob Thornton’s oil fixer character, Tommy. The casting marks a powerful reunion for the two acclaimed actors.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Elliott’s involvement came directly from series creator Taylor Sheridan. Sheridan reached out to Elliott by text after the actor had taken time away from work following his celebrated role in 1883. This move continues Sheridan’s trend of building a trusted repertoire of talent across his television universe.

From Text to Screen: The Story Behind the Casting

Sam Elliott revealed the casual beginning of his journey to Landman. He said he hadn’t worked much since starring in the Yellowstone prequel, 1883. A simple text exchange with Taylor Sheridan turned into a phone call. Sheridan then told Elliott he planned to put him “back to work.”

Elliott was eventually offered the role of Tommy Norris’s father. He signed a two-year contract for the part. The actor expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to re-enter Sheridan’s storytelling world. He called the material a “gift” and is thrilled to be working with Thornton again.

A Deeper, More Personal Season for the Hit Drama

Billy Bob Thornton explained how the second season evolves. The first season was about setting up the complex world of Texas oil. Season two delves much deeper into the personal lives and histories of the characters. The dynamic between Tommy and his father, T.L., is a central emotional arc.

Elliott described T.L. as a “broken man” haunted by the long-ago loss of his wife. This tragedy fractured his relationship with his son decades ago. The season will explore the painful but ongoing healing process between the two men. Thornton confirmed the new season is more emotional and humorous, with richer character development.

The show’s avoidance of overt political messaging has also been noted. Thornton says he is routinely thanked by real oil industry workers for portraying their world authentically. He has faced only one direct political question from audiences, which he deftly sidestepped, preferring to keep the focus on character and story.

Landman continues to be a defining hit, proving Taylor Sheridan’s storytelling resonates on a massive scale. The addition of Sam Elliott ensures the second season will dig even deeper into the heart of its compelling characters.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What character does Sam Elliott play in Landman?

Sam Elliott plays T.L. Norris, the father of Billy Bob Thornton’s character, Tommy Norris. He is a broken man dealing with a long history of personal loss and a fractured relationship with his son.

Q2: How did Sam Elliott get the role on Landman?

Series creator Taylor Sheridan contacted Elliott directly via text message. This led to a phone call where Sheridan offered him the part, telling the actor he was going to put him “back to work.”

Q3: Is Landman season 2 streaming now?

The first episode of the second season is now available on Paramount+. New episodes are released weekly on Sundays, following a traditional rollout schedule for the platform.

Q4: How has the real oil industry reacted to the show?

Billy Bob Thornton states that oil industry professionals frequently approach him to thank the show for its portrayal. They appreciate the spotlight on their complex and often misunderstood business.

Q5: Is Landman a political show?

The series deliberately avoids taking a political side. It focuses on the characters, their relationships, and the realities of the oil market rather than advocating for a specific political viewpoint.

Q6: How many seasons is Billy Bob Thornton signed for?

Thornton has a multi-year contract for Landman, initially signed for four to five years. He has expressed a desire to continue as long as the story remains compelling and fresh.