New Episode of “Landman” Explores College Roommate Dynamics

The latest episode of “Landman,” a well-known series, delves into the nuances of modern relationships, focusing on the experience of a character finding out that their college roommate prefers specific pronouns. Created by Taylor Sheridan and Christian Wallace, this Paramount+ show centers on Tommy Norris, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, as he navigates the complexities of power and family in the West Texas oil industry.

In the January 11th episode, Tommy’s daughter, Ainsley, played by Michelle Randolph, heads to a cheer camp at Texas Christian University, where she prepares to enroll as a freshman. In her dorm, she meets her new roommate, Pagin, a sports medicine major with short red hair, who identifies with they/them pronouns.

Ainsley expresses her confusion about using plural pronouns for one person: “I’ve always wondered why they use ‘they/them,’ since that’s plural,” she reflects. “I don’t really get the need for pronouns. If you’re talking about me when I’m not there, then it seems like it wouldn’t matter much, right?”

Pagin, however, brings an unexpected twist to their shared space, revealing a pet ferret and insisting on certain household rules. Ainsley finds the idea of air fresheners off-putting, as Pagin claims they release “toxic airborne petrochemicals.” Additionally, they suggest avoiding meat, playing music, and even using potentially offensive language like “trespassing.” “This is my safe space,” Pagin asserts, emphasizing the importance of their environment for mental well-being.

Things heat up when Ainsley interrupts Pagin’s meditation, leading her to request a roommate change from her college advisor. When the advisor refuses to assist, Ainsley calls her mother, Angela, played by Ali Larter, who swiftly comes to campus to sort things out. Frustrated by the lack of options, Angela manages to convince the advisor to allow Ainsley to leave for off-campus housing due to “allergies.” Soon, the two check into a luxury hotel nearby for the duration of the cheer camp.

This episode isn’t the show’s first critique aimed at progressive views; a previous installment had Tommy mocking the female hosts of ABC’s “The View,” calling them “angry billionaires” who paradoxically despise the very wealth they possess.