Billy Bob Thornton Discusses ‘Landman’, Taylor Sheridan, and Angelina Jolie
Billy Bob Thornton, the acclaimed actor and musician, recently shared insights about his life and career as he celebrates his recent milestone birthday. At 70, Thornton opted for a simple birthday celebration with his wife, Connie Angland, and his children, favoring quality time over extravagant festivities. He mentioned enjoying a vegan cake, which accommodates his dietary restrictions.
Billy Bob Thornton on ‘Landman’ and Career Reflections
Thornton is currently starring in the hit Paramount+ series ‘Landman,’ where he plays Tommy Norris, a dealmaker for an oil company. The show has recently premiered its second season. In reflecting on his character, Thornton noted the relatable pressures of being a dealmaker, drawing parallels to his own experiences of carrying burdens in life.
He expressed that his background growing up in Arkansas and Texas gives him a unique connection to the oil industry depicted in the show. Thornton humorously contrasted his character’s style—complete with a cowboy hat and Western shirt—with his own personal fashion sense.
Insights on TV and Film from Thornton
During the interview, Thornton praised Taylor Sheridan, the creator behind ‘Landman,’ for his insightful storytelling. Thornton emphasized that Sheridan understands the audience’s desire to see relatable characters on screen, particularly in a time of societal turmoil. He appreciated Sheridan’s ability to create suspenseful narratives that keep viewers engaged.
Thornton recalled resistance to television roles earlier in his career, believing acting on TV was not the path for serious actors. His perspective shifted after his involvement in the critically acclaimed series ‘Fargo,’ leading him to embrace the evolving landscape of entertainment that prioritizes streaming content.
Reflections on Fame and Personal Life
Thornton candidly discussed his experiences with fame, noting that becoming popular later in life has allowed him to navigate the pressure more successfully. He remarked on the overwhelming opportunities that followed his Oscar-winning work on ‘Sling Blade,’ crediting fellow filmmaker Robert Redford for guiding him to remain rooted in independent film.
Exploring his past relationships, Thornton addressed his marriage to Angelina Jolie, stating that their split was amicable despite the media frenzy surrounding their relationship. He reflected on the challenges of living in the public eye, mentioning misconceptions fueled by tabloid culture.
Musical Aspirations and Balance
Aside from acting, Thornton is an accomplished musician, leading the band The Boxmasters. He shared that music is a core aspect of his identity and feels more authentic on stage than during his acting roles. His musical influences range from the British Invasion to Southern California pop rock, showcasing his deep-rooted passion for music.
Thornton’s journey through various facets of entertainment continues to evolve. He remains committed to his creative endeavors while maintaining a grounded family life. As he enjoys success, he emphasizes the importance of authenticity in both his personal and professional life.
