Billy Bob Thornton is basking in the success of his latest project, the oil business drama “Landman,” now in its second season on Paramount+. The series has become a significant streaming hit, showcasing Thornton’s character, Tommy Norris, as he navigates new responsibilities following the death of CEO Monty Miller, played by Jon Hamm. Thornton reflects on his journey in Hollywood, recalling how he was once told he was “too ugly to be a leading man” and “too pretty to be a character actor.” Rather than conforming to industry expectations, he chose to embrace his unique identity, which has led him to a rich and varied career.
The 70-year-old actor attributes much of the show’s success to its creator, Taylor Sheridan, stating, “Taylor gives us people who are unabashedly themselves.” In the new season, Norris finds himself reluctantly stepping into a leadership role at the fictional M-Tex, a petroleum company that has undergone significant changes. “He does not want to be a suit, because when you are a suit, there is always something being thrown at you,” Thornton explains. He adds that this character reflects a part of himself, saying, “I’m pretty much playing myself if I was a landman.”
In addition to his acting career, Thornton leads his ’60s-inspired rock band, The Boxmasters, and resides in Los Angeles with his wife, Connie Angland. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the victories in life, especially given the challenges of the entertainment industry. “I told Taylor the other day, ‘I’m happy. You’re happy. The season is going so smoothly. Something must be wrong,’” he said with a laugh. “We shouldn’t go there … to the negative. Enjoy the wins.”
Exploring New Horizons
The appeal of “Landman” lies in its exploration of a rarely depicted industry. Thornton points out, “You get to watch a show that raises the curtain on a business that’s not normally seen on TV.” He praises Sheridan’s writing, noting its blend of humor, drama, and authenticity. “Landman has humor, drama, emotion, absurdity, all of it,” he asserts.
The camaraderie among the cast is another highlight for Thornton. He shares that after filming, the cast often gathers for social outings. “Ali will say, ‘Hey, we’re going to dinner. Andy is coming. Sam is coming,’” he recalls. The playful banter reflects a strong bond among the actors, contributing to a positive working environment.
Thornton has long admired Sam Elliott, one of his acting idols, along with Robert Duvall and Gene Hackman. He remarks, “What I respected about them is that you don’t see them acting. They’re completely authentic.” This authenticity is something Thornton strives for in his work, particularly in “Landman.”
Embracing Life and Its Lessons
Reflecting on his life experiences, Thornton acknowledges the challenges he faced due to obsessive-compulsive disorder, dyslexia, and anxiety. Yet, he views these struggles as sources of strength. “Sometimes what people consider afflictions help you in other areas of our life,” he shares. This perspective has aided him in delivering long monologues in “Landman,” as he utilizes his photographic memory to memorize lines.
Thornton’s varied past includes numerous jobs before his rise to fame, such as working in a pizza parlor and driving trucks. He believes that even mundane jobs can provide valuable inspiration. “Everything can be inspiration for a different time in your life,” he states. His creative ideas often emerged during seemingly dull moments, such as when he worked slotting screws.
He advises others to find their passion and engage deeply with it. “You have to pick your passion and dive in,” he emphasizes, highlighting his love for music and storytelling. Moreover, he values interactions with fans, expressing gratitude for their support. “The fans pay for my life. They allow me to do what I do — and I’m grateful,” he notes.
As he continues to navigate his career, Billy Bob Thornton remains grounded, embracing the beauty of each new day and the potential it holds for unexpected connections. His journey reflects a commitment to authenticity and a celebration of personal and professional victories.
