Dr Pepper: The Taste of Texas and Its Role in Landman
Share
Dr Pepper, the iconic soft drink that calls Texas home, makes frequent appearances in the Paramount+ series Landman. It’s no surprise—this fizzy favorite is deeply rooted in Texas culture, making it the perfect addition to a show set in the heart of West Texas.
A Texan Original
Dr Pepper’s story begins in 1885, a year before Coca-Cola was invented, in the town of Waco, Texas. Created by pharmacist Charles Alderton, the drink was originally called “Waco” and served at the local drugstore’s soda fountain. Customers loved it, famously asking for a “Waco” by name.
The drink’s eventual name, Dr Pepper, has a bit of Texas-sized lore attached. Wade Morrison, the drugstore owner, supposedly named it after the father of a woman he admired—a man he wanted to impress. Though Morrison didn’t win the girl, he did name one of the most iconic drinks in American history.
A Cultural Staple in Texas
For many Texans, Dr Pepper is more than just a drink—it’s a way of life. From its unique blend of 23 flavors to the nostalgic ritual of pouring peanuts into the bottle for a salty-sweet treat, it’s a symbol of Texan pride. It even inspired Dr Pepper Poker, a game where 10s, 2s, and 4s are wild—a nod to the old Dr Pepper slogan encouraging folks to enjoy a bottle at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. for an energy boost.
The Dublin Dr Pepper Legacy
True fans might remember Dublin Dr Pepper, the version sweetened with pure cane sugar rather than high-fructose corn syrup. Produced in Dublin, Texas, this version was cherished for its throwback taste. Though production ceased in 2012, its legend lives on in the hearts of soda enthusiasts—and serves as a reminder of the power of tradition in Texas.
Dr Pepper in Landman
In Landman, the characters don’t just drink Dr Pepper—it’s a quiet nod to their Texas roots. Whether it’s on a desk during a negotiation or clutched in a roughneck’s hand during a break, the drink is a subtle, authentic thread tying the show to its Lone Star setting.
As co-creator Christian Wallace shared, Landman is about capturing the soul of West Texas, and you can’t do that without a nod to Dr Pepper—a drink as bold, unique, and enduring as the oil patch itself. So next time you watch Landman, crack open a Dr Pepper, sit back, and savor a taste of Texas history.