Billy Bob Thornton isn't letting the wait for Landman Season 3 slow him down. The Oscar-winning actor has officially attached himself to a new limited series centered on the Mayflower, the ship that carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620. The project, which is still in early development, marks a significant departure from the oil fields of West Texas and into the rugged terrain of early American history.
According to insiders, Thornton will not only star in the miniseries but is also expected to serve as an executive producer. The show aims to dramatize the perilous voyage and the founding of Plymouth Colony, with a focus on the human stories behind the historical event. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the series is being described as a gritty, character-driven epic in the vein of The Revenant or Deadwood.
Why the Mayflower?
Thornton has long been drawn to stories about American identity and the rugged individualism that shaped the nation. In a recent interview, he hinted at his fascination with the Pilgrims' journey, calling it "the ultimate survival story." The actor, known for his transformative roles in Sling Blade and Fargo, is reportedly eager to explore the moral complexities of the settlers and their interactions with Native Americans.
The miniseries is being developed by a major streaming platform, though no network has been officially announced. Given Thornton's track record with premium cable and streaming hits—like Goliath and Landman—expectations are high. The project is still in the scripting phase, with a target production start in late 2027.
Landman Season 3 Delays Continue
Meanwhile, fans of Landman are still waiting for news on Season 3. Taylor Sheridan's hit series, which stars Thornton as oil tycoon Tommy Norris, has faced repeated production setbacks. The delays are reportedly due to scheduling conflicts and the ongoing writers' strike that has disrupted many Hollywood productions. While Paramount+ has not announced an official release date, sources suggest the new season could arrive as late as 2028.
Thornton's new project doesn't necessarily mean he's leaving Landman behind. The actor has proven he can juggle multiple roles, and the Mayflower miniseries is expected to be a limited event, allowing him to return to the Paramount+ series once production resumes. In the meantime, fans can catch up on Ryan Gosling's streaming success or explore other historical dramas to fill the void.
A Busy Year for Thornton
Beyond the Mayflower project, Thornton has several other irons in the fire. He's attached to a biopic about a legendary blues musician, a passion project he's been developing for years. He's also rumored to be in talks for a supporting role in a major studio blockbuster. With his plate this full, it's clear that the 71-year-old actor shows no signs of slowing down.
For those eager to see Thornton in action sooner, Landman Season 2 is currently streaming on Paramount+, and his performance has been praised as one of his best in years. If you're looking for more gripping TV, check out Walton Goggins' gritty crime epic or Kevin Bacon's Tubi resurgence.
As the entertainment world waits for more details on the Mayflower miniseries, one thing is certain: Billy Bob Thornton remains one of the most versatile and compelling actors of his generation. Whether he's battling corporate greed in the oil patch or braving the Atlantic on a 17th-century ship, audiences are in for a treat.
