In the latest episode of “Landman,” which premiered on November 30, 2023, on Paramount+, Andy Garcia made his much-anticipated return as the cartel boss Gallino. Introduced in the Season 1 finale, Gallino is a character whose complex relationship with Tommy, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, adds tension to the unfolding narrative.
The episode titled “Almost a Home” sees a dramatic confrontation between Gallino and Tommy after the latter discovers that Cooper, played by Jacob Lofland, has secured a significant oil partnership with Gallino’s investment firm. This revelation leads to a heated standoff, which serves as a pivotal moment in the series.
Forging Connections on Set
Despite the on-screen friction, Garcia describes the atmosphere on set as welcoming, largely thanks to his longstanding friendship with Thornton. “I was embraced first of all by Billy, who’s the most generous,” Garcia remarked. “There’s a mutual respect there. We already had a friendship from acquaintances over the years, and so it was walking into a place where you felt you already belonged.” His comments highlight the importance of camaraderie among actors, emphasizing how it contributes to high-quality performances.
Garcia’s character, Gallino, was crafted specifically for him by Taylor Sheridan, the show’s co-creator. “When he approached me, he hadn’t written the part yet,” Garcia explained. “He met with me and said, ‘I’d like to create this part for you.’” This personalized approach underscores Sheridan’s intent to create authentic characters that resonate with the actors portraying them.
Character Development and Background
Garcia revealed that his own life experiences played a crucial role in shaping Gallino’s background. The character is portrayed as a cartel leader in the Permian Basin, a detail that prompted Garcia to delve into Gallino’s origins. “I said, ‘Who’s this guy?’ And he said, ‘He’s a cartel leader in the Permian Basin.’” Garcia’s inquiry into Gallino’s identity led him to envision the character as someone with Caribbean roots who navigated his way to Texas through his connections.
“In my own mind, I’m saying, ‘He got to the Permian Basin because he’s the guy who has access to where the source is,’” Garcia noted. He conceptualized Gallino as having grown up in Miami and later moving to Fort Worth to explore new opportunities. This backstory adds depth to Gallino, illustrating how he integrates into society while remaining under the radar.
Garcia’s insights reflect the collaborative nature of character development in television, showcasing how personal experiences and professional relationships enrich storytelling. As “Landman” continues to evolve, viewers can expect more intricate dynamics between characters, particularly between Garcia’s Gallino and Thornton’s Tommy, as their paths intertwine in the gritty world of oil and power.
