When Taylor Sheridan decides to dive into a story, you know he’s not playing around. His newest brainchild, “Landman,” isn’t just about oil—it’s a bold, gritty exploration of West Texas’s oilfields, money, and power struggles. But where exactly did the filming magic happen, and how did Sheridan and his crew craft such a compelling narrative? Let’s dive into the key filming locations, intriguing production secrets, and behind-the-scenes tidbits from this buzzworthy series.
Fort Worth: Where the Action Happened
Fort Worth isn’t just cowboy boots and cattle; it’s the pulsating heart of “Landman.” Sheridan’s choice of location isn’t random. Fort Worth brims with authentic Texas energy, rich oil industry history, and picturesque urban landscapes that made the city a no-brainer for filming.
Key filming hotspots included:
- American Association of Professional Landmen Headquarters: This real-world site added deep authenticity. The hustle and professional jargon captured here made the characters’ negotiations look remarkably believable.
- Fort Worth Petroleum Club: Nothing says “powerful negotiations” better than an exclusive, private club high above the city. Here, the series’ elite schemed and strategized, giving viewers a glamorous peek into the industry’s power plays.
- Texas Christian University (TCU): The youthful vibe of TCU energized scenes exploring characters’ personal lives. Interestingly, Sheridan invited real students to serve as extras, enhancing the show’s authentic collegiate atmosphere.
- Rivercrest Country Club: Contrasting starkly with rough oilfields, this upscale setting brought sophistication, highlighting stark class divisions within the narrative.
Moving beyond Fort Worth’s urban glow, Sheridan expanded to nearby towns. Faith Community Hospital in Jacksboro became an unlikely star. This rural healthcare facility briefly turned Hollywood, hosting pivotal scenes that required a realistic hospital environment.
Roughneck Boot Camp: Not Your Typical Actor Training
Now, here’s where it gets exciting. Sheridan’s commitment to authenticity didn’t stop at choosing perfect locations. He put his actors through “roughneck camp,” a rigorous hands-on training designed to transform actors into believable oilfield workers. No easy feat!
Jacob Lofland, who brilliantly portrays Cooper Norris, emphasized how crucial this experience was. It wasn’t just acting practice; it was understanding the grit, sweat, and danger of oilfield life. This realism elevated performances across the board, giving each scene visceral power and authenticity.
Filming Timeline & Production Details
Sheridan’s ambitious plans kicked off in February 2024. The project began its principal photography phase with Fort Worth bustling as its vibrant backdrop. Production stretched out for several months, finally wrapping up in June 2024. Each filming day brought challenges—from navigating city permits to capturing the unpredictable Texas weather. Yet, every hurdle added more realism, grit, and texture to the series.
“Landman” also scored a rapid renewal, with Paramount+ confirming Season 2 in March 2025. Fort Worth quickly geared up to welcome back its beloved crew, promising even more engaging storytelling ahead.
The Sheridan Effect: Elevating Local Communities
Filming in Texas isn’t just an aesthetic choice for Sheridan—it’s about community impact. Since Sheridan began filming in Texas, he’s generated over $700 million in local economic benefits. Small businesses thrive, jobs multiply, and Fort Worth gains recognition as a premiere filming destination.
Sheridan’s productions, including “Landman,” significantly boosted the state’s economy. This isn’t just showbiz glitter; it’s real jobs, real opportunities, and genuine economic growth. His success paved the way for more filmmakers, making Texas not just a setting but an essential character itself.
Technology & Cinematic Techniques
No production highlight would be complete without mentioning how Sheridan and his crew achieved their compelling visuals. Advanced camera technology, notably high-definition drones, delivered stunning panoramic shots of oilfields and cityscapes alike. These sweeping aerial views enhanced storytelling, pulling audiences directly into the Texas atmosphere.
Moreover, meticulous lighting techniques underscored each setting’s unique ambiance—from the cold sterile environment of hospital rooms to the warm glow of upscale clubs. Production designers nailed every detail, whether a cluttered office or a luxurious dining hall, making each scene come vividly alive.
Community and Extras: Real People, Real Feel
Sheridan’s genius lies in using real Texans to populate his sets. By involving locals as extras, “Landman” naturally captures genuine reactions and authentic dialogue rhythms. Students, healthcare workers, oilfield veterans—all contributed uniquely authentic moments, enriching the narrative deeply.
Fort Worth residents embraced filming enthusiastically. From local businesses offering their venues to curious crowds gathering during outdoor shoots, community engagement remained sky-high. This excitement translated beautifully to the screen, adding another layer of genuine local color.
Final Thoughts
With “Landman,” Sheridan delivers more than just gripping drama. He gives us a vivid portrayal of Texas, blending complex storytelling, authentic locales, and unmatched attention to detail. As fans eagerly await Season 2, it’s clear Sheridan’s signature realism, enhanced by strategic locations and intensive actor preparation, has set a remarkable new standard in television storytelling.
So, next time you’re absorbed in an episode of “Landman,” remember—every location, every character interaction, and every cinematic detail carries the authentic heartbeat of Texas itself.
