What role does Michael Peña play in Landman? Character explored in depth 

One of the trending Taylor Sheridan dramas, Landman, is nearing its finale as only two episodes are left. The series debuted on November 17, 2024, and as expected, it turned out to be another major hit from the creator.

At the heart of the series is the landman Tommy Norris, played by actor Billy Bob Thornton and other acclaimed stars like Demi Moore, Ali Larter, Kayla Wallace, and more in exciting roles. Among the supporting characters who've caught fans' attention is the veteran roughneck Armando Medina, played by Michael Peña.

Known for his roles in Ant-Man (2015), American Hustle (2013), Crash (2004), and more, Michael Peña is seen playing one of the crewmembers and an ally to Tommy Norris. Armando is introduced in the first episode, in which he's seen teasing Tommy's son Cooper on his first day as he enters a high-pressure world of oil rigging after abandoning geology.

While Armando is a supporting character, his presence and actions highlight that the oil field industry requires rough-and-tumble oil workers who know how to navigate various challenges and threats. Being an experienced crewman, Armando knows how to deal with people in a dangerous environment and make a living for himself.

Continue reading to know more about Michael Peña's Armando Medina in Landman.

Michael Peña plays a veteran roughneck in the Landman TV series

One of the reasons why fans love Landman is because its cast members portray the characters impressively well. As mentioned above, Michael Peña's Armando Medina is a supporting character whose presence has brought depth to understanding the high stakes of working in the oil fields.

He and his close family members have been working in the West Texas oil industry for years, and their perspective on the industry is shaped by the harsh realities of life. One of the key moments in which Armando opens up about his past mistake and how he ended up in the oil fields comes during a conversation with Tommy's son Cooper.

As seen in Landman Episode 1 "Landman," Cooper catches up in a conversation with Michael Peña's Armando and asks if his entire family works in the oil industry. Armando says, "Everybody's whole family works the patch," suggesting that working in the patch is a family tradition.

Also Read: How accurate is Landman? Dangers of working on an oilfield - facts vs fiction, explored

To explain further, Armando takes his uncle and his own example of spending time in prison in the past when they tried to earn money by stealing. He explains that for people with a criminal record, opportunities to make six-figure money are limited.

He and his uncle had just two choices: continue stealing or step into the old industry to earn a good amount of money. As a result, they started working in the oil fields and are now satisfied with their jobs. Armando even gives a notable advice to Cooper, saying:

"You know what though, it’s better you work for it real hard. You know, that way nobody can take it away."

Michael Peña's character here suggests that working in the oil field is secure as you work hard to earn the money, not just steal someone else's. Despite the difficult and demanding work, it offers respect and an honest way of earning.

This conversation suggests Armando is realistic and supportive and believes in hard work. His younger brother, who's just a 24-year-old, has no debts, owns a house, and even has a wife because he straight away entered into the oil industry.

As the first episode comes to an end, Armando, along with two other roughnecks, meets a tragic end during their work due to an explosion.

Peña's character reflects the challenging lives of roughnecks who have limited options. Armando's conversation with Cooper also sheds light on the dangerous and sometimes morally ambiguous world of oil rigs.

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Also Read: Who is the daughter of Landman? The character and her plot so far, explained in detail

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