Billy Bob Thornton dismisses claims he is leaving 'Landman' as ‘AI-generated’ reports

Billy Bob Thornton rejects online claims about his 'Landman' exit, saying reports are AI-generated and untrue

Billy Bob Thornton has denied reports suggesting he is leaving the Paramount+ series Landman, describing the claims as “AI-generated” and disconnected from reality.

Speculation about Thornton’s future on the show began circulating online following developments in the January 11 episode, in which his character, oil executive Tommy Norris, is fired from his role as president of M-Tex Oil by company owner Cami Miller, played by Demi Moore. The storyline led to claims that Thornton himself would exit the series after two seasons.

Thornton, who is 70, rejected those claims outright. Addressing the reports, he said, “There’s an AI report that Demi and I are a couple now, and there’s one that I’m leaving the show. They have nothing to do with reality.” He added that the reports are “AI-generated crap”.

The actor confirmed that he is expected to return when production on Season 3 begins in the spring. “I’ll be there,” Thornton said, while noting that speculation about the upcoming January 18 season finale should not be confused with his real-life involvement in the series.

Landman has continued to expand its cast in its second season, with Sam Elliott joining as Tommy Norris’s father, TL. Thornton spoke positively about the experience, saying, “It’s been great working with Sam. And I love doing the show.” He added, “I’ll be here as long as it plays out. If it’s five years, great. If it’s six, I’m there.”

While Thornton’s comments clarify his position, the fate of his character remains unresolved ahead of the Season 2 finale.

Viewers will learn whether Cami Miller reverses her decision or whether Tommy Norris returns in a different capacity, potentially as an adversary within the company.

The actor’s remarks underline growing concerns about the spread of inaccurate information generated online, particularly when fictional storylines are misrepresented as real-world developments.