Billy Bob Thornton is experiencing a resurgence in his acting career with the success of the streaming series “Landman.” Now in its second season, the show has become a significant hit on Paramount+, showcasing Thornton’s multifaceted talent. The actor, originally from Hot Springs, Arkansas, reflects on his journey in Hollywood and the importance of embracing success.
In the past, Thornton faced skepticism about his looks and suitability for leading roles. “You’re too ugly to be a leading man, and you’re too pretty to be a character actor,” he recalls being told. Instead of conforming to industry standards, he chose to carve out his own identity. This decision has led to a career filled with memorable performances in films such as “Sling Blade,” “Fargo,” and “Bad Santa,” as well as the critically acclaimed “Landman.”
Taylor Sheridan, the series creator, has been instrumental in shaping “Landman.” Thornton attributes much of the show’s appeal to Sheridan’s ability to create authentic characters. In the latest season, Thornton portrays Tommy Norris, who has stepped into the role of president at the fictional petroleum company M-Tex after the death of CEO Monty Miller, played by Jon Hamm. “He is a reluctant president because he can’t quite give up being a landman,” Thornton explains, adding that he finds himself reflecting his own personality in the role.
As “Landman” continues to thrive, it has introduced exciting new elements, including the addition of veteran actor Sam Elliott as Thornton’s father. Thornton humorously expressed his contentment with the series, stating, “I told Taylor the other day, ‘I’m happy. You’re happy. The season is going so smoothly. Something must be wrong.’” He emphasizes the importance of celebrating victories in life, urging others to “enjoy the wins.”
The series offers a unique glimpse into the oil industry, an aspect Thornton believes is rarely depicted on television. “You get to watch a show that raises the curtain on a business that’s not normally seen on TV,” he shares. The dialogue and character development, according to Thornton, are particularly well-executed, blending humor with drama and emotional depth.
Behind the scenes, the camaraderie among the cast is evident. Thornton notes that they often socialize after filming, highlighting the strong bonds formed during production. “Ali [Larter] will say, ‘Hey, we’re going to dinner. Andy [Garcia] is coming. Sam is coming,’” he recounts, showcasing the light-hearted dynamic among the actors.
Thornton cites Sam Elliott, along with Robert Duvall and Gene Hackman, as significant influences on his own acting style. He admires their authenticity and ability to deliver performances that resonate deeply with audiences. “What I respected about them is that you don’t see them acting,” he remarks.
Reflecting on his life experiences, Thornton embraces the unpredictability of each day. “Around the next corner, you might meet someone new and say, ‘I feel like I’ve known you for 25 years,’” he observes. This outlook stems partly from his diverse job history prior to achieving stardom, which included roles in pizza parlors, machine shops, and truck driving. He regards even the more mundane positions as valuable learning experiences.
Living with obsessive-compulsive disorder, dyslexia, and anxiety, Thornton finds that these challenges have equipped him with unique skills. He explains that his ability to memorize lines comes from his photographic memory, which allows him to process information differently. “I don’t read left to right like a normal person. I see things in chunks,” he describes, revealing how his mind works.
Thornton encourages others to pursue their passions, whether in music or film. He admits that while he may not memorize every line from movies, he knows the liner notes from his favorite albums by heart. “You have to pick your passion and dive in,” he advises.
Engaging with fans is important to Thornton, who expresses gratitude for their support. He values the connections formed through conversations, often spending time talking with individuals from all walks of life. “The fans pay for my life. They allow me to do what I do — and I’m grateful,” he states, underscoring the importance of listening and learning from others.
With the success of “Landman” and an invigorated career, Billy Bob Thornton continues to inspire through his work and outlook on life. As he navigates this new chapter, he remains committed to enjoying the victories and embracing the journey ahead.
