Landman is led by Thornton as Tommy Norris, the overseer of an oil-drilling operation in west Texas. He does the daily dirty work of managing crews in the world’s largest oil field, fending off cartel competition and basically doing the bidding of his boss, Monty (Hamm). It’s a world where roughnecks and wildcat billionaires are fuelling a boom so big it’s reshaping the climate, the economy and the geopolitics of the region.

The series is written by Sheridan and Christian Wallace, inspired by the podcast Boomtown, which Wallace hosted and based on his own experience working in the modern-day, fortune-seeking world of oil rigs. It retains Sheridan’s signature western swagger but incorporates serious doses of dark humour and challenging family dynamics.

Variety reviewer Alison Herman wrote that “Landman is strongest when using Thornton’s always-compelling screen presence to guide the viewer through the vagaries of the oil and gas industry, including potential alternatives and the looming threat of climate change”, while Rolling Stone’s Alan Sepinwall describes the series as “a slick Eighties primetime soap opera dressed up in the trappings of a contemporary antihero drama — Dallas with cursing, more violence, and nudity.”

Reviewing Landman for NPR, Eric Deggans writes that “on the surface, it's another of Sheridan's many drama series triumphs, harnessing Thornton's on-screen charisma to fuel a gutsy story about a modern-day oil boomtown. Like so many of his shows, it portrays a working man's culture from an area of life rarely highlighted in Hollywood, educating viewers on its subtleties while highlighting the stuff that binds us all.”

Don’t miss Landman on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) from 2 June at 9pm.

Click here for the trailer

So far, the season has delivered on drama and entertainment. We’ve seen OGs Nonku Williams and Sorisha Naidoo trying to figure out their on-again, off-again friendship, Angel Ndlela and Jojo Robinson forming a surprising connection, Kwanele Kubheka opening up about her marriage, Lo Sithole challenging Nonku, newcomers Precious and Minnie Ntuli clashing over Precious’s hair business, and Season 2 alumni Londie London returning to the show as a friend. There’s been plenty for fans to talk about.

The team recently caught up with 31-year-old Londie, who has just successfully roasted Helen Zille in The Showmax Roast of Helen Zille. Londie first rose to fame in 2015 as a social media influencer, recognised for her striking selfies and trendsetting fashion sense. Since then, she has been signed to a major record label, launched her own hair business, and starred in the first-ever The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip – South Africa. Now a mother of two and recently divorced, Londie is ready to step back into the spotlight and turn up the heat.

How does it feel to be back on The Real Housewives of Durban?
It feels amazing to be back, especially now that I am in a very comfortable space in my life.

You are one of the most recognisable faces from the franchise. How has the show changed since you first joined?
The show has changed drastically for me. It is not just about the new faces; the overall energy and atmosphere are completely different. This season, I am focused on bringing more positivity and sharing what it really feels like to rediscover yourself as a single mother.

Why do you think some of the other women were intimidated by your presence?
I do not think the women expected me to return, and being a public figure definitely adds another dimension. People often form opinions based on what they see in the media and miss the opportunity to get to know who you truly are. That gap in understanding can create tension before any words are even exchanged.

Which has been more challenging: The Showmax Roast or The Real Housewives of Durban?
The Real Housewives of Durban is more challenging. You are constantly navigating different personalities and unpredictable situations. With The Showmax Roast, everyone knows they are there to laugh, joke, and have fun. I love comedy, so I am able to enjoy that space without taking things personally. The Housewives, on the other hand, demands emotional awareness and strength.

Why do you think you and Nonku Williams seem to clash at times?
We are both strong personalities, and that naturally leads to tension. I also think Nonku does not respond well to being held accountable. I am very straightforward and I say things as they are, which can be uncomfortable for some people.

Which cast members from The Real Housewives of Durban, past or present, do you still keep in touch with?
I stay in touch with a few of the women. Nonku, Jojo, and Sorisha are the ones I connect with most. Sorisha especially holds a very special place in my heart. I truly love and respect her deeply.

Did you expect your relationship with Minnie to turn sour so quickly?
Not at all. I am still surprised at how fast things changed between us and there is still more to come. Everyone will just have to watch the season and see how it all plays out.

Are you ready for the reunion?
Absolutely. I am ready to address everything that needs to be said, and I have the perfect dress for the moment.

Many fans want you back on the show full time. Is that something you would consider?
Yes, definitely. I love a challenge, and I think the group needs a bit of sass and spice to keep things exciting.

Why should people keep watching The Real Housewives of Durban?
This season is full of twists that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Even I cannot wait to see how it all unfolds.