Casey Townsend

In the mid-'70s, legend has it that Plano West and Deep South Mississippi had a baby. Moments after the OBGYN gave the newly delivered baby boy a gentle back slap, he gave a slight cough, slowly opened his little eyes, puked all of his doctor and winked at his delivery nurse while smiling like a Cheshire cat. They named him Casey Townsend.

Most will be surprised to learn that Casey’s unique Epsilon Nu pledgeship experience influenced the development of Thornton’s character in Landman. Casey pledged in 1993, the strongest class in Sigma Chi history, yet somehow missed initiation with that legendary group. But like Thornton, he didn’t give up. In 1995, he charmed his way back, earning a second bid and finally being initiated—albeit with a less impressive group of pledge brothers.

Now, at 50, Casey is embracing the “old dad” trend, with two young boys: Jack, 5ish, and Tate, 3ish. Lord help us all.

His saving grace? His wonderful wife, Bri Townsend, who like many before her, clearly has questionable judgment) is not only a spectacular mother, but she’s also a welcoming hostess for all Sigma Chis. If you’re ever in Lubbock, Bri would love for you to drop by unannounced—“the later, the better,” she insists. Just reach out to the Housing Board for their address!