Andy Garcia recently joined the cast of “Landman,” marking his first appearance as the character Gallino in the Season 1 finale. The character, a menacing cartel boss, returns in the latest episode, which premiered on November 30, 2023, on Paramount+. His storyline intertwines with that of Billy Bob Thornton‘s character, Tommy, who finds himself in a tense situation after learning that a substantial oil partnership was signed with Gallino’s investment firm.
The latest episode features a significant confrontation between Gallino and Tommy, adding layers to their relationship. Although their characters are at odds, Garcia expresses that working alongside Thornton creates a welcoming atmosphere on set. He remarked, “I was embraced first of all by Billy, who’s the most generous. There’s a mutual respect there.” Their long-standing friendship contributes to an environment where actors can rely on one another to deliver their best performances.
Garcia’s portrayal of Gallino was crafted specifically for him by writer and co-creator Taylor Sheridan. He shared that Sheridan approached him with a unique opportunity: “When he met with me, he hadn’t written the part yet. He said, ‘I’d like to create this part for you.’” Garcia noted that Sheridan had been influenced by his earlier work, particularly a role in the film “Eight Million Ways to Die,” where he played a drug dealer. The decision to shape Gallino’s character around Garcia’s persona demonstrates Sheridan’s commitment to authenticity.
The character’s backstory is also deeply connected to Garcia’s own experiences. He explained the process of developing Gallino, stating, “When I asked about the character’s origins, Taylor said, ‘He’s a cartel leader in the Permian Basin.’” This prompted Garcia to consider how his own background could inform the character. “I said, ‘My character is from the Caribbean,’” he elaborated. Garcia imagined Gallino as someone who had grown up in Miami but moved to Fort Worth, Texas, seeking new opportunities while remaining under the radar of local society.
Garcia’s insights reveal how personal history can enhance a character’s depth, allowing actors to bring authenticity to their roles. The integration of real-life elements into fictional narratives resonates with audiences, making the storytelling more relatable and engaging.
As “Landman” continues to develop its intricate web of characters and plots, Garcia’s performance as Gallino promises to be a significant element in the unfolding drama. Viewers can anticipate further developments in the relationship between Gallino and Tommy as the season progresses, with both actors committed to delivering compelling performances that reflect their shared history and on-screen chemistry.
