Landman Co-Creator Reveals Show’s Realism and Exaggerations in Oil Industry Portrayal

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The show, which premiered in November 2024, has quickly become a hit. As Taylor Sheridan’s newest series – co-created with Christian Wallace – this neo-Western drama is currently airing the second half of its second season.

Recently, series co-creator Wallace discussed what the show gets right and wrong about the oil industry. The show centers on Billy Bob Thornton’s character, who’s determined to succeed during a period of rapid growth in the oil business. Wallace, who previously worked as an oil roughneck, explained how the show strives for authenticity in its portrayal of the industry.

Christian Wallace, who hosted the podcast Boomtown – the inspiration for the series Landman – explained his role in the show’s creation. He described collaborating with creator Taylor Sheridan, offering ideas and insights that Sheridan then developed into the show’s compelling drama and humor.

Wallace shared that he’s one of the few West Texans on set with actual oil rig experience. He also complimented the cast and crew, noting they’ve gained a much better understanding of the oil and gas industry in the second season. He explained that he spent a lot of time answering basic questions during the first season, but now feels like some of his colleagues are really getting the hang of the business – even joking that one actor is well on his way to becoming a landman.

Wallace remembered discussing the idea for the series with Sheridan, who then asked him to write a script encompassing all the storylines. Sheridan later called Wallace and offered him the roles of co-creator and executive producer, an offer Wallace was thankful for, as Sheridan had the option to develop the series independently.

Wallace shared that while he aims for historical accuracy in the series, entertainment is the top priority. He’s learned over time how to balance factual details with compelling storytelling, and the team always strives to be as true to real events as possible, even while making necessary adjustments.

According to Wallace, the show’s strength lies in its commitment to realism. They use actual oil drilling equipment and hire experienced oil workers, making everything as authentic as possible.

The show’s depiction of cartels is overblown, according to one of its creators, though it’s based on some real events. He clarified that he’s never heard of any oil and gas land negotiators being threatened with violence like that.

As a fan, what I really appreciate about this show is that it finally gives us a peek behind the curtain of the oil industry. The co-creator explained that these aren’t made-up stories, but actual conversations people working in West Texas are really having – conversations most of us haven’t had access to before. It feels incredibly authentic and gives you a whole new perspective.

Landman’s Main Character Is Heavily Exaggerated for a Good Reason

I’ve always admired how Landman isn’t afraid to bend the rules a little for the sake of a good story. He openly admits to taking creative liberties – little ‘shortcuts,’ if you will – to make sure the audience really gets what’s happening. He once explained it perfectly: sometimes a detail might not be entirely realistic for a specific moment, but if it helps convey the emotion or plot point more clearly, he’ll use it. It’s all about making the story as accessible and impactful as possible, and I think that’s brilliant.

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The central character, Tommy Norris, wears many hats. He’s officially a landman – that’s actually part of the show’s title – but in reality, he performs three or four different roles typically found in the oil field.

Wallace pointed out that a realistic portrayal of a landman’s job – mostly just researching and looking up information on a computer – wouldn’t be very entertaining for viewers. He believes it would be incredibly dull to watch.

You can watch Landman on Paramount+, with new episodes released every Sunday. The season will conclude with its finale on January 18, 2026. Paramount+ has already…

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2025-12-22 22:15