Taylor Sheridan’s Landman isn’t just pumping oil; it’s pumping clever little Easter eggs into every dusty corner of the screen. Sure, it’s a gritty dive into Texas oil country, but blink and you might miss some sly winks to Sheridan’s other hits, local Texas lore, and even classic cinema. So grab your hard hat, because we’re about to drill deep into the ten hidden gems that make Landman a true gusher.
1. Friday Night Lights Flashback
First off, we have an absolute touchdown of a reference. In Episode 3, Tommy Norris (played by Billy Bob Thornton) takes his daughter to a high school football game at Ratliff Stadium in Odessa, Texas. Sound familiar? It should.
Why? Because that’s the same stadium from Friday Night Lights, the iconic 2004 movie where Thornton played none other than Coach Gary Gaines. It’s a full-circle moment, a beautiful blend of character, actor, and Texas football pride. And honestly, can you even claim you’re making a Texas show without a little Friday night football?
2. Beth Dutton Would Approve
Moving right along, Episode 4 drops a line that’s pure dynamite. Rebecca (played by Kayla Wallace) snarls, “I’ll hang your f**king law degrees above my toilet.” Now if your TV-watching senses tingled, you’re not alone.
That’s almost word-for-word what Beth Dutton barked back in Yellowstone Season 3. Sheridan knows his fans love a sharp tongue, and he’s not shy about recycling a zinger when it still cuts like a knife.
3. Tombstone Tribute
But wait, there’s more! In a scene dripping with bravado, Tommy casually name-drops Tombstone. This isn’t just a “cool guy quoting movies” moment. Oh no, it’s a deliberate nod to the Western genre that Sheridan worships.
Tombstone isn’t just a movie; it’s a touchstone for everything rugged and lawless — themes that Landman drinks like sweet tea on a hot day.
4. Coyotes Howl Again
Speaking of rugged, keep your eyes peeled for coyotes. Yep, those sneaky canines pop up throughout Landman, just like wolves stalk Yellowstone. Coincidence? Definitely not.
Sheridan loves his symbolism. In his world, these creatures aren’t just background noise — they’re totems of survival, cunning, and sometimes, lurking threats. So when you hear that lonely howl, know it’s a call to the wild heart of the story.
5. JD’s Hamburgers Gets Its Spotlight
Hungry for another Easter egg? Swing by JD’s Hamburgers in Fort Worth. No, seriously.
This real-deal burger joint pops up in the show, and fans are eating it up. Literally. After Landman started filming there, the local spot saw a major boost. It’s become a mini-mecca for those wanting a taste of the action — and maybe a side of onion rings.
6. Sheridan’s Slithering Signature
But Sheridan doesn’t just love big furry animals; he’s got a thing for rattlesnakes too. In Landman, these rattlers slither across the screen just like they did in Yellowstone and Tulsa King.
Why rattlesnakes? Because nothing says “danger lurks here” better than a buzz in the brush. Plus, they’re the perfect metaphor for characters who charm you one second and strike the next.
7. Permian Basin: Not Just a Pretty Name
Let’s get serious for a second. Landman isn’t inventing its oilfield playground. It’s set right in the heart of the real Permian Basin — the pumping heart of Texas oil.
Sheridan doesn’t just slap names on places; he injects authenticity into every oily handshake and dusty truck ride. The show’s grit feels real because, well, it is. If you’ve ever worked in the oil industry, you’ll spot dozens of little insider truths scattered like oil slicks.
8. Boomtown Inspiration
Here’s a juicy bit: Landman didn’t just spring up from Sheridan’s brain like a cowboy Athena. It’s based on the podcast Boomtown, which chronicles the real stories of West Texas oilfield workers.
Sheridan scooped up those wild tales and spun them into the rich tapestry we see on screen. So when scenes feel a little too real, it’s because they are.
9. A Family Affair: Sheridan’s Favorite Faces
If you’re the type to shout “Hey, I know that guy!” at your TV, you’re not imagining things. Sheridan loves to work with his favorites, and Landman is packed with alumni from Mayor of Kingstown, Lioness, and, of course, Yellowstone.
It’s like a reunion tour where everyone’s a little rougher, a little sweatier, and a lot more Texan.
10. Texas Landmarks: Bigger and Better
Finally, let’s talk scenery. Fort Worth’s Petroleum Club, Texas Christian University, and other iconic spots make glorious cameos throughout Landman. These aren’t green screens or dressed-up backlots — they’re the real deal.
Every landmark grounds the story deeper into Texas soil, and hardcore locals can’t help but grin when their hometown favorites flash across the screen.
Wrapping Up: Time for a Rewatch, Partner
Landman isn’t just about drilling wells or big business betrayals; it’s a layered playground for fans who love a good treasure hunt. Sheridan’s fingerprints are all over it, from the choice of animal symbolism to the shoutouts to Western classics.
So saddle up and queue it all over again. Because if you caught ten Easter eggs, chances are—there’s ten more waiting in the wings.
