Billy Bob Thornton’s character Tommy has always been the primary focus of “Landman,” even though the show’s narrative focus has shifted from the petroleum industry to family issues as the second season draws to a close. Tommy is bold, intelligent, and humorous. His ability to remain composed under duress and express his opinions is very similar to Thornton’s genuine enthusiasm.
The seasoned actor discussed his toughest challenges this season with Variety, as well as how the show appeals to a wide range of fans and why screenwriter and co-creator Taylor Sheridan’s programs are occasionally overlooked when it comes to accolades.
He was asked whether “Landman” and other Taylor Sheridan shows are sometimes underrepresented in award conversations. Why do you think that is?”
The actor answered outspokenly, “I think a lot of it’s political. I really do. I think some people assume Taylor is some sort of right-wing guy or something, and he’s really not. Even with this show being about the oil business, he just shows you what it’s like. He’s not saying “Rah, rah, rah for oil.” It’s just the people who work in this business or who are affected by this business, the people on the periphery and within the families in the business; this is what happens. These are the kinds of problems and joys and triumphs and whatever happens in this world. It’s a world of gambling, and you never know what’s going to happen. But I think people got the wrong idea about that.”
He concluded his statement by stating, “Acting is not a sport. If you run the 100-meter dash in the Olympics and you break the tape first, you win. There’s no question about it. Everybody saw it. How do you say in the artistic world who won? It’s an intangible thing. Then people say, “Well, any one of the nominees besides me could have won this. They’re all wonderful actors.” Not only them, some other actors in the audience who weren’t nominated, some other ones who aren’t even at the show, some other ones who aren’t even known by people have done an amazing job. If you put your heart and soul into something you love, and you’re satisfied with your work, and it works in the thing, there’s the award. I look at it that way. I’m too damn old now to worry about stuff like that. I got enough awards. I’m good.”
