Taylor Sheridan’s ‘Landman’ Legal Drama Explained

Taylor Sheridan’s oil-field drama “Landman” is facing legal heat over its use of copyrighted material. The estate of iconic radio broadcaster Paul Harvey has filed a lawsuit against Paramount+, claiming the series used and edited one of Harvey’s 2008 radio segments without permission. The suit alleges that the clip was taken out of context to promote a pro-oil narrative that misrepresents Harvey’s original message.

‘Landman’ Faces Lawsuit Over Use of Paul Harvey Broadcast

Harvey, known for his signature broadcast “The Rest of the Story,” recorded a 90-second segment titled “Gas Crisis” in which he explored the complex forces behind rising gas prices. According to the complaint, “Landman” used that clip out of context to support the show’s perceived pro-oil industry themes, a move the estate says misrepresents Harvey’s views.

“Paramount not only grabbed a long, copyrighted audio clip without our client’s permission,” attorney Jaime Wolf told The Wrap, “but they also twisted the intent of Mr. Harvey’s words by editing his original broadcast.”

The lawsuit was filed by Paulynne, the media company established by Harvey and his wife, Lynne Cooper Harvey. It claims Paramount has been knowingly and continuously exploiting the clip for commercial gain without responding to earlier attempts to resolve the issue privately. According to the legal filing, Paramount’s use of the “Gas Crisis” audio has resulted in “a financial benefit to the Defendant and the loss of substantial licensing income to Paulynne.”

The estate is demanding that the clip be removed from the show and is also seeking monetary compensation for the alleged copyright infringement.

The Billy Bob Thornton Hit Is Slated to Return for Season 2

Despite its current legal woes, “Landman” remains one of the buzziest new dramas on Paramount+. Created by Sheridan—who also brought audiences “Yellowstone,” “Tulsa King,” and wrote “Sicario”—the series dives deep into the gritty, high-stakes world of Texas oil fields. It stars Thornton alongside Ali Larter, Demi Moore, and Jacob Lofland in a narrative that blends family tension, corporate greed, cartel feuds, and even debates around renewable energy.

Described by some as “Dallas” for a new generation, “Landman” taps into the cinematic history of oil-field storytelling, following in the tradition of “Giant” and “There Will Be Blood.”

While the lawsuit has cast a shadow over the series, it hasn’t derailed plans for more episodes. According to reports, season 2 is set to premiere in November 2025.

Fans can stream season 1 on Paramount+.

Tell us! Did you watch season 1 of “Landman”? Let us know in the comments below.