Billy Bob Thornton Celebrates Career Wins with ‘Landman’ Success

Billy Bob Thornton has embraced his career journey, celebrating recent success with the acclaimed series “Landman.” Now in its second season on Paramount+, this oil business drama has captured audiences, thanks in large part to the vision of series creator Taylor Sheridan. Thornton, reflecting on his evolution in Hollywood, noted, “I decided to just be Billy Bob Thornton,” after being told early in his career that he didn’t fit typical mold expectations.

At 70 years old, the Hot Springs, Arkansas native has built a diverse portfolio of memorable roles in films such as “Sling Blade,” “Fargo,” and “Bad Santa.” In “Landman,” Thornton plays Tommy Norris, who has stepped into a more prominent role as president of the fictional M-Tex petroleum company following the death of CEO Monty Miller, portrayed by Jon Hamm. The series showcases Thornton’s character grappling with the responsibilities of leadership while maintaining his identity as a landman.

“Tommy is a reluctant president because he can’t quite give up being a landman,” Thornton explained. “He does not want to be a suit, because when you are a suit there is always something being thrown at you.” This authenticity resonates with viewers, as Thornton describes the character as akin to his own persona.

In addition to his acting career, Thornton leads the rock band The Boxmasters, which draws inspiration from the music of the 1960s. Living in Los Angeles with his wife, Connie Angland, he emphasizes the importance of cherishing successes. “I told Taylor the other day, ‘I’m happy. You’re happy. The season is going so smoothly,’” he shared, adding with a laugh, “We shouldn’t go to the negative. Enjoy the wins.”

The appeal of “Landman” lies in its unique perspective on an often-overlooked industry. Thornton noted, “You get to watch a show that raises the curtain on a business that’s not normally seen on TV. Taylor just writes great dialogue and great characters.” The series combines humor, drama, and emotional depth, showcasing the complexities of personal and professional relationships.

The camaraderie among the cast, which includes Demi Moore and Sam Elliott, extends beyond filming. Thornton recalled moments of levity, such as when co-star Ali Larter insisted on dining at more upscale venues, humorously rejecting a local “dump” near his home.

Reflecting on his career influences, Thornton idolizes actors like Sam Elliott, Robert Duvall, and Gene Hackman, who embody authenticity in their performances. “I came into this business wanting to be like Sam,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of genuine representation in acting.

As Thornton navigates life and his career, he embraces the unpredictability of each day. “You never know. Around the next corner, you might meet someone new and say, ‘I feel like I’ve known you for 25 years,’” he remarked. This outlook stems from a rich tapestry of experiences, including a variety of odd jobs prior to his rise to fame.

Thornton believes that even seemingly mundane jobs contribute valuable lessons. “I knew that even the most boring job would be good fodder for future things,” he explained, recalling how inspiration can strike during unexpected moments.

Living with obsessive-compulsive disorder, dyslexia, and anxiety has shaped Thornton’s approach to his craft. He describes a unique cognitive process that aids his memorization skills, stating, “I don’t read left to right like a normal person. I see things in chunks. I also have a photographic memory.” This distinctive ability aids him in delivering long monologues in “Landman.”

Musically inclined, Thornton shared that while he may not recall every line from every movie, he knows the liner notes from his favorite albums. “You have to pick your passion and dive in,” he advised, illustrating his commitment to both music and acting.

Thornton also values connection with his audience. “The fans pay for my life. They allow me to do what I do — and I’m grateful,” he said, highlighting the importance of listening to people and learning from varied experiences.

His journey in Hollywood is an inspiring testament to resilience and authenticity, as Thornton continues to thrive and enjoy the wins that come with his hard-earned success.