FORT WORTH — This past weekend marked the premiere of the highly-anticipated series “Landman” on Paramount+, a show deeply rooted in the heart of Texas, with Fort Worth taking center stage.

“Landman” delves into the often-overlooked world of land management within the Texas oil and gas sector, a profession that comes with its own set of unique challenges. The series is helmed by Taylor Sheridan, known for his work on the popular show “Yellowstone,” and stars Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris, a modern-day landman grappling with a plethora of obstacles, including cartel confrontations and explosive mishaps at oil rigs.

Curiosity sparked among viewers and critics alike: just how accurate is this portrayal?

Nancy McCaskill, president of the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL), weighed in. “We don't make deals with bags on our heads,” she clarified, highlighting the stark contrast between Hollywood's dramatization and the reality of land management. While she acknowledged the show embellishes some aspects of the profession, she affirmed that many landmen do have their own harrowing stories. “We all have stories to tell including threats and challenges, but at the core, we negotiate surface leases and serve as advocates for the land.”

So, what exactly does a landman do?

According to the AAPL, landmen are the bridge between energy companies and landowners, negotiating leases that allow for exploration and development of essential resources. As the series showcases Fort Worth, various scenes were filmed at notable local sites, including the prestigious Petroleum Club and the AAPL headquarters—an unexpected choice for the producers who had no idea they were filming at the national base for landmen.

On the premiere night, dozens of local landmen gathered to watch the first episodes together, sharing a sense of camaraderie over their inspiring, if exaggerated, profession.

Sean Foster, a land broker attending the event, expressed his satisfaction with how some of the show's dialogues reflect real industry conversations. However, he pointed out one major omission: “The countless hours spent behind the scenes analyzing data and poring over spreadsheets simply don’t make for thrilling television.”

Notably, as the demand for renewable energy sources like solar and wind increases, coupled with the burgeoning need for energy resources that underpin advancements in artificial intelligence, the role of landmen has never been more critical.

Both McCaskill and Foster are optimistic that “Landman” may lure new talent into their field. “We want to emphasize the importance of energy in our daily lives and hope people see that we are approachable and ready to negotiate the future of energy,” McCaskill stated passionately.

As the excitement continues, AAPL is also planning to launch a podcast series that will dissect and discuss episodes of “Landman” following their release, providing fans and industry insiders insights into the realities behind the screen.

So, grab your popcorn and settle in—this show promises not only entertainment but also a glimpse into a pivotal segment of the Texas economy.