Taylor Sheridan, the Fort Worth-born creator behind the hit series Yellowstone and Landman, has crafted shows that resonate strongly with viewers but consistently fall short in awards recognition. Billy Bob Thornton, who stars as the lead in Landman, shared his perspective on why this might be the case.
Thornton Attributes Award Snubs to Industry Politics
Speaking to Variety, Thornton suggested that political biases may influence award decisions. He remarked,
“I think a lot of it’s political. I really do,”
Billy Bob Thornton said.
“I think some people assume Taylor is some sort of right-wing guy or something, and he’s really not.”
Thornton emphasized that Landman focuses on the realities of the oil industry without glorifying it. He explained that the show
“just shows you what it’s like”
and does not promote oil in a positive or negative light, but rather depicts the people involved in or affected by the business, from workers to their families.
“Just the people who work in this business or who are affected by this business, the people on the periphery and within the families in the business.”
Recognition and Future of Landman
Thornton earned a nomination for best actor in a TV drama at the 2025 Golden Globes for his performance in Landman’s inaugural season, yet the series’ second season, completed earlier this month, received no nominations. Despite this, the show, shot extensively in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, has been renewed for a third season on Paramount+.
Reflecting on the lack of awards, Thornton expressed a seasoned mindset about recognition and success.
“If you put your heart and soul into something you love, and you’re satisfied with your work, and it works in the thing, there’s the award,”
he said.
“I look at it that way. I’m too damn old now to worry about stuff like that. I got enough awards. I’m good.”
The Show’s Impact and Upcoming Season
Landman continues to build on its strong following, drawing viewers with its gritty, authentic portrayal of the oil business and the families entwined within it. With a third season confirmed, fans can expect the series to delve deeper into the complicated lives shaped by the industry in and around Fort Worth, where much of the filming takes place.
