“Landman” Creator Confirms Cartel & Bikini Barista Accuracy in Paramount+ Series Inspired by His Podcast

Indeed, there are baristas serving coffee in bikinis. And no, drug cartels don’t have dealings with land agents like the character Tommy Norris played by Billy Bob Thornton.

Christian Wallace, a key figure behind the scenes, is well-informed about the real versus the imagined in the oil-rich Permian Basin of Texas. His 2019 podcast Boomtown caught the attention of Taylor Sheridan, leading to the creation of the Landman series on Paramount+.

With the inaugural season of Landman wrapping up on January 12, Wallace, who collaborates with Sheridan as a co-creator and writer, sheds light on the production of the series, which stars Jon Hamm and Ali Larter, and discusses his experiences with real-life landmen compared to the show’s daring Tommy.

Insights from Christian Wallace

DEADLINE: Could you describe your involvement in the series? Were you part of the writing team?

CHRISTIAN WALLACE: Absolutely. It was just Taylor and me in the writer’s room. We spent a couple of years discussing the plot and characters before drafting the scripts. Taylor had me create a spec script from our discussions, and afterward, he appointed me as a co-creator. While he wrote the episodes, I was present on set to assist with various aspects like rigging, costumes, or dialogue.

DEADLINE: As a podcaster who has explored the oil industry, how accurate is the show?

WALLACE: Much of it is spot-on, though we’ve condensed some elements for narrative clarity. Opinions on accuracy can vary, especially among industry veterans like my uncle, who might scrutinize every detail. However, the series generally gives a solid portrayal of life in the oil and gas sector.

DEADLINE: And the portrayal of cartels, is that a reflection of reality?

WALLACE: The cartel aspect wasn’t a focus in my podcast, but drug trafficking and equipment theft are real problems in that area. The depiction of a wild west scenario is quite accurate, though the specific interactions with the fictional M-Tex oil company are purely imaginative.

DEADLINE: The inclusion of the National Guard in the plot was dramatic. Is there any truth to that?

WALLACE: That’s a testament to Taylor’s flair for amplifying drama and tension. The National Guard scenario is all his invention.

DEADLINE: Could you point out any direct influences from your podcast on the series?

WALLACE: Several elements from the podcast are woven into the show. For instance, yes, there are indeed bikini-clad baristas in boomtowns, which we covered in an episode. Also, the serious issues like fatal accidents on the rigs are based on true stories, including a tragic incident involving my uncle.

DEADLINE: Have you met many landmen like Billy Bob’s character, Tommy?

WALLACE: I have, including one of my best friends. However, Tommy’s multifaceted role is far more thrilling than the typical landman’s duties, which mostly involve mundane tasks like lease checking and compliance.

DEADLINE: What about the show’s take on renewable energy?

WALLACE: We discussed renewables like solar and wind in the podcast. While Tommy’s character offers a critical view, it reflects a real sentiment found in discussions throughout West Texas.

DEADLINE: Lastly, the women in Tommy’s life, do they resemble real individuals from the region?

WALLACE: Absolutely, the show captures the vibrant and bold personalities typical of West Texas women. They add a necessary lightness to a show filled with intense and often grim themes.

DEADLINE: Has the show been educational for viewers about the oil industry?

WALLACE: Definitely. It’s sparked curiosity and encouraged viewers to delve deeper into an industry that impacts everyone, yet remains largely out of the public eye.