Renewable energy criticized in viral 'Landman' clip: 'Nothing clean about it'

A video from Billy Bob Thornton's new show "Landman" became popular on X due to its criticism of renewable energy sources like wind turbines, which are meant to address climate change.

In the show's scene, Kayla Wallace asked, "Do oil wells use clean energy for power?"

Billy Bob Thornton's character stated that although they utilize alternative energy, it is not clean.

Kayla Wallace inquired, "Mr. Oilman, could you explain how the wind negatively impacts the environment?"

Thornton's "Tommy Norris" replied, "Can you estimate the amount of diesel required to mix that much concrete, manufacture that steel, and transport it with a 450-foot crane? How much oil is needed to lubricate that machine? Or winterize it? Over its 20-year lifespan, it will not offset the carbon footprint of producing it. And let me tell you about the environmental impact of solar panels and the lithium in your Tesla battery."

The rural America drama "Landman," created by Taylor Sheridan and Christian Wallace, portrays the life of the billionaire Norris family and their interactions with influential figures in the oil rig industry in West Texas.

In 2022, Sheridan, the creator of the popular TV series "Yellowstone," revealed plans for "Landman," a show based on the podcast Boomtown, which explores the oil rigs and wealthy owners in west Texas.

"If Exxon believed those things were the future, they would be everywhere," Tommy Norris said.

The clip sparked a debate on X, with users expressing both praise and criticism.

Billy Bob Thornton is hit with an epic monologue in Taylor Sheridan's new show 'Landman', according to Alex Thorn, head of Firmwide Research at Galaxy.

Troy Cross, a professor of Philosophy and Humanities at Reed College, stated that the carbon payback period is between 6 months and two years.

"Tom Nelson, the producer of Climate: The Movie, responded by stating that he was not buying the claim and questioned whether it was possible to create wind turbines solely through wind energy."

"If you want to educate yourself on the new series Landman starring Billy Bob Thornton, watch this one scene and share it widely," Texas Alliance posted on X.

Patricia Shouker, CEO of Energy Bridge Global, responded to Texas Alliance's post with a "100" emoji, indicating agreement.

This month, Paramount+ will release "Landman," starring Demi Moore and Jon Hamm.