Landman Season 2: Who is T.L.? Explanation of Sam Elliott’s Role

In the latest season of Paramount+’s Landman, viewers were introduced to a new character, T.L., played by Oscar-nominated actor Sam Elliott. T.L. is revealed to be the father of Tommy Norris, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton. The season, which premiered on Nov. 16, follows Tommy as he navigates his role as the head of M-Tex Oil in West Texas.

T.L.’s introduction in the season 2 premiere comes as a surprise to fans, as details about Elliott’s character were kept under wraps until the show aired. In the episode titled “Death and a Sunset,” T.L. is seen sitting in a wheelchair at the Prairie View assisted living facility, where his cranky and stubborn personality is quickly revealed. As the character deals with grief and loss, viewers get a glimpse of the complex dynamic between T.L. and his son Tommy.

Elliott’s casting in Landman season 2 came after a conversation with show creator Taylor Sheridan, who convinced him to return to acting after a hiatus. Thornton, who shares a long-standing friendship with Elliott, expressed his excitement over their on-screen reunion, highlighting the strong connection between the two actors.

New episodes of Landman are released weekly on Paramount+, giving fans the opportunity to follow the evolving story of T.L., Tommy, and their intertwining lives in the Texas oil industry.