Billy Bob Thornton Dismisses ‘Landman’ Exit Rumours as “AI-Generated Crap”

SYDNEY, 18 January 2026 – Oscar-winning actor Billy Bob Thornton has forcefully denied swirling speculation that he is leaving the Paramount+ series Landman, labelling the reports as baseless fabrications. The rumours emerged following a dramatic plot twist in the show’s second season, which saw his character, oilman Tommy Norris, fired from his position. Thornton, 70, has confirmed his commitment to the Taylor Sheridan-created drama as it heads into a confirmed third season.

Rumours Sparked by On-Screen Drama

The speculation began after the 11 January episode of Landman, in which Thornton’s character, Tommy Norris, was abruptly dismissed as president of M-Tex Oil by the company’s new owner, Cami Miller, played by Demi Moore. This fictional storyline apparently bled into real-world gossip, with online reports suggesting Thornton might be departing the series after two seasons.

Thornton addressed the rumours head-on in recent interviews. “There’s an AI report that Demi and I are a couple now, and there’s one that I’m leaving the show,” Thornton stated. “They have nothing to do with reality.” He characterised the basis of these reports as “AI-generated crap.”

A Firm Commitment to the Future

With production for Landman Season 3 scheduled to commence in the Australian autumn (spring in the Northern Hemisphere), Thornton has left no doubt about his continued involvement. “I’ll be there,” he vowed. The actor expressed his affection for the project, highlighting his enjoyment working with Season 2 newcomer Sam Elliott, who plays his character’s father. “I’ll be here as long as it plays out. If it’s five years, great. If it’s six, I’m there,” Thornton added.

The series was officially renewed for a third season in December 2025. Co-star Ali Larter announced the news on social media, thanking fans for making the show a “massive success.”

Key Facts: ‘Landman’ at a Glance

Praise for Taylor Sheridan’s Process

In separate interviews, Thornton opened up about the unique working environment created by showrunner Taylor Sheridan. He praised Sheridan’s prolific and solo writing style, which forgoes a traditional writers’ room. “We don’t understand how he writes so much and so quickly and does such great work,” Thornton admitted. “He has his finger on the pulse of humans somehow.”

Thornton also credited Sheridan’s instinctive casting, suggesting the writer tailors roles to the specific strengths of his actors. “He’s very good at putting the right people in the right parts… Taylor has a specific voice for each character,” Thornton said.

On the Horizon: New Film ‘Somedays’

Outside of Landman, Thornton has been spotted filming a new project titled Somedays in New Jersey. Reports indicate he plays a terminally ill delivery driver who forms a significant bond with a troubled teenage girl, played by Ariana Greenblatt (Barbie, Avengers: Infinity War). The film, written and directed by Brian Klugman, is anticipated for release in early 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Billy Bob Thornton really leaving ‘Landman’?

No. Thornton has explicitly denied these rumours, calling them “AI-generated crap.” He has committed to returning for Season 3, which is scheduled to begin filming in the coming months.

Has ‘Landman’ been renewed for another season?

Yes. Paramount+ officially renewed Landman for a third season in December 2025, during the broadcast of its second season.

What happened to Tommy Norris on ‘Landman’?

In the penultimate episode of Season 2, Tommy Norris was fired from his role as president of M-Tex Oil by the new owner, Cami Miller (Demi Moore). The character’s future will be a central point of the season finale on 18 January.

What other projects is Billy Bob Thornton working on?

Thornton is currently filming the dramatic feature Somedays in the United States. He continues his role as the lead in Landman, with production for Season 3 set to start soon.