Jacob Lofland Reflects on Growth and Challenges in ‘Landman’

Jacob Lofland, star of the series “Landman,” shared insights into his character Cooper Norris and the challenges of portraying a young man navigating complex choices. The show’s latest episode, titled “The Pirate Dinner,” premiered on December 14, 2023, on Paramount+, continuing to explore the intricacies of family dynamics and personal growth in the oil industry.

In “Landman,” Lofland’s character, Cooper, is often portrayed in stark contrast to his well-dressed family. While they embody a polished image, Cooper’s life as a laborer in the oil fields leads to humorous remarks about his hygiene. Lofland admitted that after hearing these comments multiple times, he became somewhat self-conscious. “I would walk around after about three times last season of hearing that, going, ‘You know, I don’t think I’m that bad,’” he recounted with a laugh. He attributed this characterization to the demanding nature of Cooper’s work environment, where the heat and oil production contribute to a less-than-fresh appearance.

As the season progresses, Cooper faces increased scrutiny regarding his life decisions. In a pivotal scene, he sells his oil sites to his father’s company after a candid discussion with Tommy, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton. Tommy warns Cooper that his new business partner, Gallino (played by Andy Garcia), may exploit him. Despite the turbulence in his professional life, Cooper’s impulsive choice to marry Ariana (Paulina Chavez) reflects his ongoing struggle with maturity. Lofland emphasized the relatability of Cooper’s journey, noting, “The reason I really fell in love with this character is that it is relatable for the age and for what he’s going through at that time.”

Lofland, who is 29 years old, acknowledges that while he might make different choices now, he has also experienced youthful impulsiveness. He views these mistakes as crucial learning opportunities. “It’s important for him to go through that time in life, make these decisions, screw up, learn from the mistakes, don’t do it again,” he explained.

Working alongside seasoned actors like Thornton has provided Lofland with valuable lessons about professionalism and leadership. He observed, “Billy shows up every day ready to work and excited about the job, which in turn makes everyone else excited.” This positive energy on set is significant for the overall atmosphere of production.

The introduction of Sam Elliott as Cooper’s grandfather further enriches Lofland’s experience. He admires both Thornton and Elliott for their work ethic and humility. “It’s just being able to be around these men… and watch the way they carry themselves, the way they work,” he said. Lofland appreciates their punctuality and preparedness, noting that they rarely hold up production. Their collaborative spirit encourages open dialogue about scenes, reinforcing the idea that filmmaking is a team effort.

As the season unfolds, Lofland hinted at unexpected developments in Cooper’s storyline, urging fans to stay tuned for surprises. “There are some twists and turns and surprises that I don’t think anyone’s predicted yet,” he stated enthusiastically.

With its blend of humor, drama, and life lessons, “Landman” continues to resonate with audiences, thanks in part to Lofland’s compelling portrayal of a young man grappling with the realities of adult life in a challenging environment.