Ali Larter Dives into Season Two of *Landman* Amid Family Life in Idaho

Actor Ali Larter has been making waves lately as she films the second season of the Paramount+ series, *Landman*. Based in Fort Worth, Texas, for the next five months, Larter is balancing her professional life while navigating her duties as a mother. After relocating with her husband, Hayes MacArthur, and their two young children to a small town in Idaho at the pandemic’s onset, Larter has adapted to a lifestyle far removed from the buzz of Los Angeles.

Finding Balance: Life in Idaho and Texas

Since their move, Larter and MacArthur have embraced small-town life, trading in city lights for serene mountain views. Larter explains, “COVID opened up so many different lives for people in unexpected ways… It was a really challenging time,” reflecting on how the pandemic prompted their major lifestyle shift. With their children settled into school in Idaho, Larter accommodates her filming schedule while maintaining her family responsibilities.

On her days off, she frequently flies back to Idaho for important events like parent-teacher conferences. As summer approaches, she looks forward to welcoming her family to Fort Worth. “It’s been hard juggling the two worlds, but I feel fortunate to keep my family close,” she shares.

Embodying Angela Norris

In *Landman*, Larter portrays Angela Norris, a fierce matriarch who quickly became a fan favorite. Unlike many roles she’s played before, Angela is an empowering character who wrestles with the complexities of family and self-identity. Larter describes Angela as “ballsy and confident and who does not give a fuck what the world thinks about her.” The character’s journey unfolds amidst the tumult of a cliffhanger climax in season one, portraying the dynamic between Angela and her ex-husband, Tommy, played by the legendary Billy Bob Thornton.

Expertly written by Taylor Sheridan, the character of Angela serves not just as a counterpoint to Tommy but also embodies larger themes of empowerment and resilience that resonate with viewers. Larter notes, “I love that Taylor writes for older women — women in their prime, that are still allowed to be alive!” This perspective showcases Larter’s appreciation for characters that challenge traditional narratives about women in television.

The Journey to Season Two

Larter’s audition process for Angela was intense, comprising multiple stages that culminated in a demanding screen test. “By the time I got to Fort Worth, I had a solid understanding of the character,” she recalls. Her ability to fully inhabit Angela was evident as she navigated the character’s complexities, delivering emotional depth with every scene. “Angela’s story unfolds in layers; she encompasses everything from maternal strength to vulnerability, embodying a woman who balances her personal desires with familial obligations,” Larter explains.

Her commitment to developing Angela’s character deepened during production, where each episode adds more nuance to the role. “We were figuring out who these characters were and what made them tick,” she shares about the first season. With a clearer grasp of her character in the current season, Larter expresses confidence in bringing Angela’s evolution to life. “It’s easier now because we know who these characters are,” she says.

Anticipation for Season Two

The forthcoming season promises a richer narrative, focusing heavily on familial bonds and personal growth. Larter emphasizes the importance of the show retaining its emotional weight, stating, “This season is really beautiful; it’s emotional and has some very sensitive, incredible moments.” This evolution reflects not just in Angela’s relationship with Tommy but also introduces new dynamics with characters portrayed by stars such as Demi Moore and others joining the ensemble.

As the filming progresses, Larter is excited yet nervous, acknowledging the challenge of bringing Taylor’s ambitious writing to life while managing family life. “It’s game on; as long as people keep watching us, we’re going to be down here shooting it,” she concludes, hinting at the potential for many more seasons to come.

With *Landman* season two now in production, fans wait eagerly to see how Angela Norris navigates her complex world, both as a mother and a woman determined to reclaim her life in the rough-and-tumble landscape of family and industry.

Catch up on all episodes of *Landman* season one streaming now on Paramount+.