Landman cast welcomes Sam Elliott as Tommy’s father, season 2 premieres Nov. 16

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By: Daniel Harris

Sam Elliott rides into Landman season 2 as the father of Billy Bob Thornton’s character, and the drama hits differently. The legendary actor, 81, made his devastating debut on Nov. 16 as T.L. Norris. Paramount+ is now streaming the new episodes weekly on Sundays. His first scene struck an emotional chord with fans watching.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • Sam Elliott stars as T.L., Tommy Norris’s aging father in assisted living.
  • Season 2 premiered Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025 on Paramount+ with new episodes dropping weekly.
  • The Oscar-nominated actor brings an emotional depth to the family conflict storyline.
  • 10 episodes total for season 2, ending Jan. 18, 2026.
  • Elliott previously worked with creator Taylor Sheridan on the acclaimed series 1883.

What Happens in T.L.’s Debut Scene

Sam Elliott’s entrance grabbed viewers immediately with raw emotional power. He begins the episode sitting in a wheelchair outside an assisted living facility in Texas, peacefully watching the sunset. A worker interrupts him, trying to bring him inside for dinner before dark.

Then harsh news arrives. A facility employee named Hank tells T.L. that his wife Dorothy has died. “She took her afternoon nap, just didn’t wake up,” Hank explains with attempted compassion.

“I recommend you find a way to die quick.”

— Sam Elliott as T.L., responding to condolences in Landman Season 2, Episode 1

The response shows T.L.’s deep pain. He speaks about “dying a little bit every day,” revealing the emotional toll of aging and loss. The scene captures raw vulnerability without sacrificing strength.

Why This Casting Changes Everything

Bringing Sam Elliott into the Landman universe wasn’t coincidental casting. Billy Bob Thornton himself championed the choice publicly. He called Elliott “the only person” to play his on-screen dad, emphasizing how natural this fit feels.

The father-son relationship was clearly strained heading into season 2. Tommy learns about his mother’s death mid-episode but seems emotionally detached about it. This sets up significant family drama ahead between both men throughout the season.

Elliott’s previous work with Taylor Sheridan on 1883 earned him a SAG Award for Lead Actor. He called that recognition “the most meaningful acknowledgement of my 55-year career.” Here, he brings that same gravitas and authenticity to Landman.

Cast, Release Schedule & Where to Watch

Here’s everything you need for seamless streaming enjoyment of Landman season 2:

Show Landman (Season 2)
Platform Paramount+ (exclusive streaming)
Premiere Date Nov. 16, 2025 (already live)
New Episodes Sundays at 12:00 AM ET / 9:00 PM PT
Total Episodes 10 episodes
Season Finale Jan. 18, 2026

Main cast includes Billy Bob Thornton, Demi Moore, Ali Larter, Jacob Lofland, and Andy Garcia. Paramount+ subscriptions start at $7.99/month with ads or $12.99/month ad-free. Jon Hamm did not return following his character’s fate in season 1.

What Should New Viewers Know?

Landman follows the oil boom in West Texas, where wealth and power clash dangerously. Tommy Norris navigates billion-dollar deals and personal warfare constantly. His wife Angela, played by Ali Larter, represents the complicated domestic side.

  • Season 1 established the stakes: ruthless business, dangerous competitors, family fractures.
  • T.L.’s arrival complicates things further with unresolved father-son conflicts.
  • Expect weekly drama drops every Sunday for the next 9 weeks.
  • Best to watch from the beginning if this is your first time diving in.
  • Sam Elliott will appear throughout the entire season as a regular cast member.

Why Does This Matter for Landman Fans?

Adding Sam Elliott reshapes the show’s emotional DNA. The oil industry drama stays intense, but now we get generational conflict and mortality themes. T.L.’s presence forces Tommy to confront what truly drives him beyond wealth and power.

The premiere showed no major confrontations yet between them. That makes it clear: the real story unfolds gradually over these 10 episodes. By the finale in January, expect explosive revelations about their past relationship and what it means now.

Do you think T.L. will approve of his son’s ruthless business tactics? Drop your predictions in the comments!

Sources

  • People Magazine – Detailed coverage of Sam Elliott’s emotional debut and storyline
  • Paramount+ – Official premiere dates and streaming information
  • USA Today – Comprehensive season 2 premiere details and viewing guide

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