Landman returned for Season 2, and the stakes in Taylor Sheridan’s oil-country drama just got a whole lot higher. During the third episode of the season, the Paramount+ drama drops one of the most intense moments yet. The scene left viewers asking the same question: what exactly is that gas leak, and how dangerous is it in real life?

The scene, which shows hunters and oil workers collapsing near an M-Tex tank, isn’t just for drama. It highlights a very real threat faced by oilfield workers across Texas and beyond. While Landman definitely amps up the tension for television, the incident it depicts has real-world roots and serious implications for anyone working in the oil and gas fields. Here’s a breakdown of what the episode is referencing, how hydrogen sulfide actually works, and why the danger is far from fictional.

What is a ‘Landman’ in oil and gas?

Before diving into the chaos of season two, it helps to know exactly what a landman is as the profession is at the center of Taylor Sheridan’s hit series. In the oil and gas world, a landman is the person who does the behind-the-scenes work that keeps drilling projects moving. According to the American Association of Professional Landmen, these professionals negotiate for mineral rights. Additionally, they research public and private records to determine ownership and manage business agreements related to oil and gas development.

On the show, Billy Bob Thornton’s character, Tommy Norris, serves as a crisis executive for M-Tex Oil. He’s not just negotiating leases—he’s putting out fires, handling crises, and even navigating cartel trouble. While Landman definitely dials up the drama, the bones of the job are accurate.

In real life, landmen typically earn an average salary of around $130,000 per year. However, salaries can range from $90,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience and location. The show dramatizes the role significantly, but the core responsibilities remain accurate to the profession.

Where is ‘Landman’ filmed?

Although Landman is set in the oil boomtowns of Midland and Odessa in West Texas, the series films primarily in Fort Worth. Filming takes place in surrounding North Texas communities. The production office operates out of Fort Worth, with crews using recognizable locations throughout the city.

Notable filming locations include Sundance Square, Texas Christian University, the Cattlemen’s Steak House and the Fort Worth Stockyards. The Patch Cafe, a central location in the show, occupies a former auto body shop on Camp Bowie West Boulevard. Monty Miller’s mansion is actually an 8,200 square foot estate built in 1927 in Fort Worth’s exclusive Crestline neighborhood. For season 2, production has expanded to include Jacksboro, Weatherford, Benbrook, and Oklahoma.

What is a H2S leak?

The gas leak depicted in Landman involves hydrogen sulfide, commonly known as H2S. It’s one of the deadliest hazards in the oil and gas industry.

Hydrogen sulfide is a highly toxic, flammable and colorless gas. It occurs naturally in crude petroleum, natural gas, and volcanic environments. At low concentrations, H2S produces a distinctive rotten egg odor. This is how Dale and the M-Tex crew identified the danger quickly. However, at high concentrations, the gas becomes odorless and can cause death almost instantly.

According to OSHA, hydrogen sulfide exposure can occur anywhere around oil and gas wells, storage tanks and pipelines. Since the gas is heavier than air, it settles in low-lying areas and confined spaces. Exposure symptoms include eye irritation, breathing difficulties, nausea, organ damage, and death. Workers in the oil industry carry electronic H2S detectors and gas masks to protect themselves.

In the episode, a group of hunters approaches an oil tank and collapses without warning. Subsequently, when Dale, Boss, and the M-Tex crew arrive to investigate, the wind shifts direction. As a result, the hydrogen sulfide pushes toward them, triggering their warning devices. The crew flees while experiencing violent coughing and vomiting.

Who is responsible if there is a gas leak?

Oil companies bear responsibility for maintaining their equipment and ensuring worker safety. When hydrogen sulfide leaks occur, companies can face substantial financial liability and compensation claims. They may receive fines and potential prosecution. OSHA requires employers to implement monitoring systems and provide proper training. Companies must also maintain safety equipment and develop emergency response plans.

In real-world cases, lawyers examine training records, safety inspection reports, and equipment maintenance logs. They use these documents to establish employer liability. Neglected maintenance or failure to address known equipment issues can result in significant legal consequences.

How many episodes is ‘Landman’ season two?

Landman season two consists of 10 episodes, following the same format as the first season. The season premiered on Paramount+ on Nov. 16. New episodes release weekly on Sundays at 3 a.m. ET. The season finale will air on Jan. 18, 2026.

The second season continues to follow Tommy Norris as he navigates new pressures at M-Tex Oil. Specifically, he deals with the aftermath of Monty Miller’s death. Demi Moore‘s character Cami Miller also takes on a much larger role in this season, now controlling her late husband’s company. Additionally, Sam Elliott joins the cast as Tommy’s father, T.L., adding another layer of family drama.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Landman a true story?

Landman is a fictional series. However, it draws inspiration from the Texas Monthly podcast Boomtown, hosted by Christian Wallace. While the characters are entirely fictional, many events parallel real incidents from the podcast. These include oil rig explosions and the dangers workers face daily. Wallace serves as co-creator and executive producer alongside Taylor Sheridan.

How much does Billy Bob Thornton make per episode of Landman?

Industry reports suggest Billy Bob Thornton earns approximately $1 million per episode for his role as Tommy Norris. However, his exact salary has not been officially confirmed. Thornton has a net worth of approximately $45 million. He built this fortune through decades of work as an actor, screenwriter, producer, and musician. His previous television roles include the first season of Fargo and four seasons of the Amazon legal drama Goliath.

Is Landman on Netflix?

No, Landman is not available on Netflix. Instead, the series streams exclusively on Paramount+.