**Michael Kelly Secures Major Role in ‘Landman’ Thanks to Nicole Kidman’s Encouragement**
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Michael Kelly, the acclaimed actor best known for his roles in series like *House of Cards* and *Jack Ryan*, owes his latest television opportunity to a nudge from his co-star Nicole Kidman. During a recent interview, Kelly shared how Kidman’s encouragement led him to reach out to acclaimed screenwriter Taylor Sheridan regarding a role in the Paramount+ drama *Landman*.

The initial spark for Kelly’s ambition came during a recent photo shoot for a men’s clothing brand, where he donned a cowboy hat. After taking part in this photoshoot for his friends’ label, Rivay, he felt motivated to pursue a role in *Landman*, a series set against the backdrop of West Texas’ booming oil industry. “I was like, ‘I want to be on *Landman*,’” Kelly remarked, recalling the moment he shared a photo of himself in the cowboy hat with Kidman.
Impressed with Kelly’s look, Kidman urged him to send the picture to Sheridan, suggesting it could serve as an expression of his interest in joining the cast. Although Kelly had worked with Sheridan before on *Lioness*, he hesitated to directly text the busy writer, noting, “One of the most prolific television writers we’ve ever had.” Despite his reservations, Kidman’s encouragement spurred him into action.
After sending the text, Kelly turned his focus back to filming alongside Kidman, expecting nothing to come of it. Moments later, when he checked his phone, he was shocked to find no response. However, six months later, an unexpected message from Sheridan changed everything. “He texted me, ‘Can you talk?’” Kelly recalled, sharing how his initial surprise quickly turned to excitement upon realising that Sheridan had found a role for him in *Landman*.
“This great new character that he wrote for me, I just, again, beside myself,” Kelly expressed, reflecting on the gratitude he felt towards both Sheridan and Kidman. As a result of this momentous turn of events, Kelly will step into the role of William Crockett, the head of a powerful oil firm in the upcoming third season of *Landman*. Described as a titan of industry, Crockett is portrayed as both influential and affluent.
Set amidst the booming energy landscape of West Texas, *Landman* delves into the lives of oil workers and the complexities of the billion-dollar industry that shapes their world. The series, created by Sheridan and Christian Wallace, boasts a star-studded cast, including the likes of Billy Bob Thornton, Demi Moore, and Sam Elliott.
For Kelly, transitioning from a viewer to being a part of the cast feels surreal. He remarked, “It’s one of those pinch-me moments,” underscoring his disbelief at how a seemingly simple action, instigated by Kidman, has opened doors for him in the industry.
As Kelly prepares to take on this new role in *Landman*, which is available to stream on Paramount+, he joins a growing list of talented actors collaborating with Sheridan. The success of *Landman* and *Lioness* solidifies Sheridan’s reputation as a groundbreaking creator in contemporary television.
With anticipation building for the new season, fans can look forward to seeing Michael Kelly don the mantle of William Crockett and witness the unfolding drama of West Texas oil. Kidman’s supportive push not only transformed Kelly’s career trajectory but also exemplifies the power of encouragement within the competitive world of acting.
