Billy Bob Thornton's willingness to hop on a flight led to a role of a lifetime. During a Q&A session at a Landman screening in Nashville, Tenn., the actor, 69, revealed how series creator Taylor Sheridan wrote the series with him in mind after he agreed to film a brief cameo in 1883.

Set in the world of West Texas oil rigs, "Landman" explores big oil's impact on communities and the complex relationship between Angela and Tommy, played by Ali Larter and Billy Bob Thornton.

Jon Hamm, Demi Moore and Ali Larter also star in the West Texas-set drama about a corporate fixer navigating the booms and busts of the oil industry.