Adapting a successful podcast into a gripping TV series isn’t exactly striking oil—but when Taylor Sheridan is involved, it’s pretty darn close. If you’re curious how the podcast Boomtown transitioned to become Paramount+’s latest smash hit, Landman, pull up a chair—this is quite a ride.
Boomtown: Striking Audio Gold
Let’s rewind to December 2019, when Texas Monthly teamed up with Imperative Entertainment to launch the podcast Boomtown. Hosted by Christian Wallace, this wasn’t your run-of-the-mill podcast. Wallace dove headfirst into the wild, oil-drenched life of West Texas’s Permian Basin. Over twelve binge-worthy episodes, listeners got a firsthand look at everyone from high-rolling executives to blue-collar roughnecks.
What made Boomtown a standout?
- Authentic, vivid storytelling from a local’s perspective.
- Deep exploration of environmental and socio-economic impacts.
- Compelling personal narratives set against a backdrop of immense wealth and risk.
Fans and critics alike couldn’t get enough. But Wallace knew this story deserved more—a broader audience and a visual life.
Enter Taylor Sheridan: The Man with the Midas Touch
Christian Wallace didn’t hesitate when asked who could best adapt Boomtown to the small screen. “Taylor Sheridan,” he said—without missing a beat. Sheridan’s gritty realism in hits like Yellowstone and Hell or High Water made him the obvious choice.
Sheridan jumped at the chance, and why wouldn’t he? He’s built a career from telling rugged, character-driven stories. Wallace trusted Sheridan, knowing he wouldn’t water down the complexity or the raw intensity of life in the Permian Basin.
Casting Gold: From Billy Bob Thornton to Demi Moore
Once Sheridan was on board, casting began—and Paramount+ didn’t hold back. Leading the charge is Billy Bob Thornton, perfectly cast as Tommy Norris, a seasoned and morally complex landman. Thornton’s magnetic screen presence adds layers to Norris’s character, pulling viewers deep into his turbulent world.
Joining Thornton are:
- Jon Hamm as Monty Miller, the charismatic yet ruthless CEO of M-TEX Oil.
- Demi Moore as Cami Miller, Monty’s influential wife and Tommy’s confidante.
- Ali Larter as Angela Norris, Tommy’s ex-wife navigating their tangled personal life.
- Jacob Lofland as Cooper Norris, their ambitious son eager to follow in his father’s footsteps.
This stellar lineup guaranteed an electrifying performance, raising expectations sky-high.
Bringing the Oil Fields to Life
Filming kicked off in February 2024 around Fort Worth, Texas. Sheridan, known for authenticity, didn’t skimp on realism. Crews set up at actual landmarks, including the American Association of Professional Landmen headquarters, Fort Worth Petroleum Club, and even Texas Christian University.
By June, filming wrapped, but the buzz was just heating up. Early glimpses promised drama, tension, and authenticity—a triple threat fans couldn’t wait to see.
A Record-Breaking Debut
On November 17, 2024, Landman finally premiered on Paramount+. Viewers devoured the first two episodes, making it the most-watched premiere in the platform’s history. The finale hit even harder, drawing 14.9 million viewers—a phenomenal feat.
Billy Bob Thornton stole the show, earning a well-deserved Golden Globe nomination for his gritty portrayal of Tommy Norris. Critics lauded the series for balancing the brutality and humanity within the cutthroat oil industry, calling it Sheridan’s best work yet.
Unsurprisingly, the overwhelming success led Paramount+ to quickly renew Landman for a second season, announced in March 2025.
Season Two: What’s Next?
The buzz for Season 2 has fans eagerly speculating. Filming began in early 2025, returning to North Texas. Excitingly, casting calls invited locals to participate as extras, giving fans a shot at joining this hit show’s universe.
So, what can viewers expect next season?
- Deeper dives into family dynamics and corporate intrigue.
- More stunning twists that only Sheridan can deliver.
- Expanded exploration of the environmental impacts of oil drilling.
The Ride Isn’t Over Yet
Transforming a podcast into a riveting TV series isn’t easy, but Sheridan and Wallace pulled it off spectacularly. The story of Landman is far from finished—there’s plenty more Texas-sized drama ahead.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the podcast or new to Sheridan’s storytelling magic, buckle up. Landman promises more compelling drama, shocking twists, and unforgettable characters—making this one adaptation that’s truly struck black gold.
