The latest episode of the popular series Landman, which aired on November 16, 2023, brought unexpected turmoil as the characters Ariana (played by Paulina Chavez) and Cooper (portrayed by Jacob Lofland) faced a heartbreaking breakup. The emotional decision stemmed from Ariana’s deep concerns for Cooper’s safety after his phone died at work, prompting her to reassess their relationship.
In a moment of vulnerability, Ariana revealed to Cooper her inability to endure another loss, especially after the death of her late husband, Elvio. This poignant scene marks a significant turning point for her character, who is grappling with the pressures of love and loss in a high-stakes environment. Cooper, who recently found success in the oil industry, reluctantly accepted Ariana’s decision, although he later confides in his friend Tommy Norris (played by Billy Bob Thornton) about potential ways to repair their fractured relationship.
Chavez shared her insights on Ariana’s motivations during an exclusive interview with Us Weekly. She stated, “I really think she was, obviously, taken aback. The stakes are so much higher now.” The actress elaborated on Ariana’s struggle to navigate her feelings, emphasizing that the oil industry poses risks that make her hesitant to fully embrace their romance. “She doesn’t want history to repeat itself,” Chavez added, highlighting the emotional weight carried by her character.
Despite the breakup, Chavez remains optimistic about the future of Ariana and Cooper’s relationship. She articulated a deep connection to their romance, describing it as “a relationship that we all want” where both partners are encouraged to be honest and pursue personal growth. “I’m a hopeless romantic, so I’m definitely in it with their relationship,” she expressed, voicing her hope that the couple can find their way back to each other.
As this season unfolds, fans will witness Ariana evolve into a stronger and more assertive character. Chavez explained that the audience will get to know her character on a deeper level, as Ariana embarks on a new phase of motherhood while exploring her aspirations for her relationship with Cooper. This deeper exploration has allowed Chavez to connect with her own experiences as a woman, stating, “My approach has just been really being able to fall in love with all aspects of being a woman.”
Although Chavez is not a mother herself, she has drawn from her oldest sister’s experiences with motherhood to inform her portrayal of Ariana. She shared how regularly visiting her sister, who welcomed her second son in January 2025, has enriched her understanding of motherhood. “I feel like this [performance] is just a love letter to Latina women and mothers,” she remarked, emphasizing the complexities faced by women navigating love and loss.
New episodes of Landman are available on Paramount+ every Sunday at 3 a.m. ET, continuing to engage viewers with its compelling narratives and character development. As audiences look forward to the unfolding dynamics between Ariana and Cooper, the series remains a poignant exploration of love, resilience, and the human experience.
