‘Landman’ Star Admits Taylor Sheridan’s Involvement With Show May Shock Fans

Billy Bob Thornton and Ali Larter talking on Landman

There’s no question that Landman carries the unmistakable voice of Taylor Sheridan. From its sharp provocations to its unflinching look at modern America, the series feels entirely authored. But according to Ali Larter, fans might be surprised by just how rarely Sheridan was physically present during Season 2. Speaking with People, Larter revealed that Sheridan, who co-created the series, only visited the set a handful of times while production was underway. She said:

“Taylor was only on set three times this year. He was there for the white truffle scene [in the premiere], because he’s going to make sure that things are going the way he wants. Otherwise, he kind of just let the train barrel ahead.”

Who Directs ‘Landman’?

Landman Season 2 Trailer



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That trust was placed largely in director Stephen Kay, who helmed all ten episodes of the season. Larter didn’t hold back when praising his influence on the show. “He is such a gift to the show,” she said. “He’s so immensely talented.” According to Larter, Landman truly found its footing in Season 2, as audiences began to understand the show’s tonal ambitions.

“I will say, with Season 2, people understood what the show is. Our show has all these tones in it. Don’t be surprised — we’re going to take you on a roller coaster, and you’re going to go from high action, to a dramatic scene, to a vulnerable love story, romantic moment to high comedy, humor.”

Season 2 also allowed Larter to further explore Angela Norris, the sharp-tongued, frequently underestimated character she plays opposite Billy Bob Thornton. “I’m always trying to find ways in every scene for you to understand Angela,” said Larter, “and that she’s got the best intentions. Even though she can be up to no good all the time, the heart runs deep in her.” The addition of Sam Elliott as Tommy’s father, T.L., proved especially meaningful for how Angela — and her daughter Ainsley — are perceived.

“When Angela and Ainsley come home, he’s just sitting at the counter. He’s just there, and he watches them. It’s like Taylor’s showing the audience how to think about Angela and Ainsley through T.L.’s eyes. The way that he sees us is so amazing because a lot of times, people even within the show are coming after her, commenting about me, or whatever. It’s just always interesting when another character in the show sees us in a different way.”

Landman is streaming now on Paramount+.