Angela Is Essential to ‘Landman,’ Despite Fan Frustration

Ali Larter Shines as Angela in "Landman": A Character Study

SPOILER ALERT: This post contains light spoilers from Season 2, Episode 8 of “Landman,” “Handsome Touched Me,” which premiered Sunday, Jan. 4, on Paramount+.

In the sprawling landscape of "Landman," Ali Larter stands out as Angela, the vivacious ex-wife and current fiancée of landman Tommy (played by Billy Bob Thornton). Her character is a force to be reckoned with, often embarking on her own escapades alongside her daughter, Ainsley (portrayed by Michelle Randolph). This season, Angela’s endeavors have included extravagant spending, house hunting, hosting themed dinners, and, in the latest episode, striking it rich at the casino while imparting her gambling wisdom to seniors from a retirement home.

In an interview with Variety earlier in the season, Larter expressed her admiration for Angela and praised the way show co-creator and writer Taylor Sheridan crafts such a unique character, even if not all fans fully embrace her.

“I think it’s incredible that Taylor’s writing for a woman in her late ’40s who’s still very alive in her body, who still wants to be intimate with her husband,” Larter remarked. “Is that why it’s so confusing to some people? I think that Taylor is a provocateur, and we’d like to put a mirror up to certain things, so I think that’s part of it.”

Larter went on to reveal that many fans not only enjoy Angela’s character but also view her as aspirational.

“I love playing a woman that’s this alive,” she shared. “There’s something so delicious about playing a character who lives by her own rules, loves fiercely, and refuses to conform to societal norms. Angela is emotionally complex and bold, and it’s exciting for me at this stage in my career to portray such a character.”

The actress also addressed the initial confusion some viewers experienced during the early episodes of the first season, where the focus on Tommy’s family dynamics wasn’t immediately apparent.

“People only saw the first two episodes, and Taylor loves to throw you a hook,” Larter explained. “Nobody knew when they saw the first two episodes that our show was really about the family. He knows what he’s doing and has a vision for seasons of this show.”

Angela’s vibrant presence on "Landman" adds depth and intrigue to the series, showcasing a woman unafraid to live life on her terms. Watch a supercut of Angela’s memorable moments below.

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As Ali Larter continues to captivate audiences with her portrayal of Angela, fans eagerly anticipate what new adventures and revelations await in the world of "Landman."