In the wake of an unexpected power shift at the conclusion of Season 1, Billy Bob Thornton has provided intriguing insights into Demi Moore’s larger role in the upcoming season 2 of Landman. Created by Taylor Sheridan, the series centers on Thornton’s character, Tommy Norris, who navigates the challenges faced by an oil company, contending with issues like drug cartels operating on their land and dangerous mishaps at drilling sites. The first season wrapped up with Jon Hamm’s character, Monty, succumbing to heart issues, resulting in Moore’s character, Cami, taking control of the company and promoting Tommy to President.
During a recent appearance at Deadline‘s Contenders panel, Thornton shared what viewers can anticipate in Season 2, which is currently in production. He hinted at an evolving dynamic with Moore’s character, suggesting that Tommy will adopt a mentorship role to help Cami grasp the intricacies of the oil industry. He emphasized the importance of “street smarts”in making deals, indicating that familial responsibilities will introduce additional complexities in Tommy’s life during this season:
Since she doesn’t really know the oil business that well, I’m there with her to show her how these people operate. You can know something intellectually, but what are the street smarts behind it? I know how to deal with these people she’s going to have to deal with. I just tell her, “Look, some of these deals you can take, but when it gets really weird and difficult, let me know, because I know these guys.”He goes from having a job that’s really difficult and a job that’s very dangerous to having two [jobs]. Now I’m kind of executive and a landman and a family man in the midst of this tornado. It makes for some pretty interesting stuff I have to say.
Thornton humorously noted that while Tommy may maintain his core characteristics in Season 2, notable changes include a potential update to his fashion sense:
I think the only difference in my wardrobe this year is every now and then, I’ll throw a sports jacket over my jeans and crummy button-up shirt.
What Thornton’s Comments Imply for Moore’s Role in Landman
Tommy Navigates a Shifting Landscape in the Oil Industry
Cami’s choice to keep ownership of the oil company and elevate Tommy to President in the Season 1 finale transformed the trajectory of both characters significantly. While some critics pointed out that Moore’s role lacked depth during the first season—especially amid her resurgence due to accolades for The Substance—Thornton’s remarks and recent announcements of a more pronounced role for Moore suggest that creator Taylor Sheridan is responding to prior critiques.
As Tommy guides Cami through the more challenging aspects of the oil business, it is plausible that her character may adopt a more active stance compared to Monty’s previous involvement. Although Cami’s past experience in business remains unclear due to her limited role in Season 1, this ambiguity allows Sheridan the chance to enrich her background, potentially showcasing her academic accomplishments or prior entrepreneurial ventures.
For Tommy, the new challenges in Season 2 converge with pivotal changes in his personal life. Not only is he working to reconcile family dynamics with Ainsley and Angela residing with him, but he has also reluctantly engaged in a deal with Andy Garcia’s character, Galino, aimed at maintaining safety. This strategic maneuver could open new avenues for Galino in the oil sector. As the newly appointed president, Tommy may feel empowered to make independent decisions, thereby altering the course of his company’s direction and finances.
Our Perspective on Thornton’s Insights for Season 2
Moore’s Character is Receiving the Development She Deserves
While Monty’s role also felt underwhelming at times during Season 1, the prospect of Season 2 for Landman is promising, particularly regarding the expansion of Moore’s character. As Tommy offers her insights into the complexities of the oil business, a deeper focus on Cami’s character will provide viewers with a more comprehensive understanding of her motivations, especially as she copes with the aftermath of her husband’s death.
For further details, visit Deadline.