Billy Bob Thornton Casts a Stripper as a Physical Therapist for Sam Elliott in Landman
Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy and Sam Elliott as T.L. in ‘Landman’ season 2.
Credit:
Emerson Miller/Paramount+
Warning: This article contains spoilers for Landman season 2, episode 8.
In the latest episode of Landman, Billy Bob Thornton’s character Tommy takes an unconventional route to assist his ailing father, T.L., played by Sam Elliott. After T.L. suffers a fall and finds himself stranded in the pool, Tommy seeks help at a local strip club.
Tommy approaches Cheyenne, a dancer at Rick’s Cabaret, with a unique proposal. "He’s 82 years old, and he’s ate-up with arthritis and all kinds of injuries," Tommy explains, emphasizing his father’s struggles. He notes to Cheyenne that maintaining flexibility is crucial in her line of work.
“I’m in the gym three hours a day,” Cheyenne replies, which resonates with Tommy as he recognizes her potential to assist his father. He offers her cash and asks, “Could you help my dad? Just show him some of your stretches to get him stronger?”
Sam Elliott as T.L. Norris in ‘Landman’.
Emerson Miller/Paramount+
Tommy clarifies to Cheyenne that the arrangement would involve “no sex,” as she expresses confusion over why he wouldn’t hire a professional therapist instead. “Well, because my pop is as stubborn as a jack mule, but he can’t say no to a pretty woman,” he responds.
Eventually, Cheyenne agrees to visit T.L., whom she describes as “looking sad” but “seems sweet,” particularly after Tommy shows her a photo of T.L. with family members. They establish a routine: Cheyenne will spend an hour with T.L. twice a week.
“It’s a little odd, but it’s innocent,” Tommy admits about their unique arrangement. An agreement arises that the sessions can be conducted “with your clothes on,” although Cheyenne humorously notes that she enjoys “taking off my clothes.” Tommy responds with a laid-back attitude, saying, “You can do it naked, I don’t give a s—.”
Sam Elliott as T.L. and Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy in ‘Landman’ season 2.
Emerson Miller/Paramount+
The episode concludes with Cheyenne’s initial visit, where they engage in aqua therapy in the pool. While floating, T.L. expresses relief, stating, "Everything feels better. Knees, hips — everything." When uncertain about the specifics of their agreement, Cheyenne assures him, “T.L., I could do this all day,” to which he playfully replies, “You have been, darling.”
New episodes of Landman are set to premiere on Sundays.
