Warning: This content contains spoilers for 1883, Landman season 1, and Yellowstone. Taylor Sheridan has found a way to breathe new life into the characters portrayed by an actor from Landman, linking them back to pivotal roles in 1883 and Yellowstone. The debut of Landman season 1 in 2024 coincided with the airing of Yellowstone season 5, part 2, positioning the neo-Western series as a noteworthy alternative to Sheridan’s iconic work. Set in the rugged terrain of West Texas oil fields rather than the picturesque mountains of Montana, the show features Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris, who serves as the fixer for Monty Miller’s (John Hamm) M-Tex oil company.
Landman season 1 mirrors elements from Yellowstone, featuring recurring actors in Taylor Sheridan’s universe, enhancing the continuity across his projects. Thornton himself had a previous role as the memorable Marshal Jim Courtright in 1883, further establishing this franchise’s interconnectedness. While the first season of Landman successfully steps into the shoes of Yellowstone, the series can capitalize on the strength of its characters to ensure a promising trajectory for season 2.
Landman Offers James Jordan a More Likeable Role than Yellowstone & 1883
Jordan’s Roles: Steve Hendon in Yellowstone & Cookie in 1883
In Landman, James Jordan portrays Dale Bradley, a petroleum engineer and roommate to Tommy. Jordan’s delightful performance illustrates Dale as the comedic anchor needed to contrast Tommy’s chaotic family dynamics with Angela (Ali Larter) and Ainsley (Michelle Randolph). This isn’t Jordan’s first venture into Sheridan’s storytelling realm; he initially appeared in Yellowstone as Steve Hendon, a character whose morally ambiguous actions cause strife for others.
Moreover, Jordan had a more antagonistic role as Cookie in 1883, where his humorous inclinations ultimately compromised the safety of the wagon train, showcasing a more reckless side. In contrast, Dale represents a refreshing turn for Jordan, making him an endearing character in Landman whose journey evokes audience support.
Landman Can Further Develop James Jordan’s Character
Enhancing Jordan’s Dale for Greater Impact
Dale’s charm and humor offers a ripe opportunity for further character exploration in season 2. Given the tradition in Sheridan’s productions, enhanced character arcs generally lead to increased viewership in subsequent seasons. Like the strong supporting characters Beth (Kelly Reilly) and Kayce (Luke Grimes) augmenting Kevin Costner’s John Dutton in Yellowstone, Landman can benefit from a deeper look at the partnership between Tommy and Dale.
As season 2 develops the narrative surrounding M-Tex’s growing ties with the cartel, Dale’s involvement may provide valuable insight into Tommy’s plans and conflicts during pivotal moments. Bolstering Dale’s backstory and his relationship with Tommy could captivate audiences, transforming his arc into a focal point of the show.
Opportunities for Character Development in Landman Season 2
Spotlight on Demi Moore & Ali Larter
Furthermore, Dale’s potential growth is shared among the entire cast, all of whom delivered commendable performances in season 1. Nonetheless, many characters barely scratched the surface regarding their complexities and backstories. The audience has merely begun to peel back their layers, including characters like Ainsley and Cami (Demi Moore). As the series progresses, enriching these narratives will enhance engagement and invest viewers in their journeys.
As the series potentially unfolds post-Monty’s tumultuous arc, Cami has the opportunity to step into a leadership role at M-Tex, thereby allowing Moore to showcase her immense talent more fully. Taylor Sheridan excels at placing lauded actors in transformative roles, and season 2 is poised to utilize this strategy for enhanced storytelling. Given Landman‘s trajectory mirrors the success of Yellowstone, it holds the promise of unveiling deeper narratives of life in Midland.