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Samuel L. Jackson Joins Tulsa King, Foreshadows NOLA Spinoff

11/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On November 16, 2025, Samuel L. Jackson (actor) debuted as Russell Lee Washington Jr. in Tulsa King Season 3.
The character is a former assassin linked to Dwight Manfredi by their prison history.
Rather than kill Dwight, Russell warns him, and they form an alliance against their common enemy Ray.
The episode foreshadows the NOLA King spinoff, where Russell returns to New Orleans after 40 years to reclaim his family.

History

Historical Context

The premiere of *Tulsa King* in 2022 marked a notable shift in television, reflecting the rise of crime dramas. Created by Taylor Sheridan, the series stars Sylvester Stallone as Dwight "The General" Manfredi, a Mafia caporegime establishing a criminal empire in Tulsa. This trend of complex antiheroes, reminiscent of *The Sopranos*, continues to shape modern storytelling and audience expectations.

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Story summary

On November 16, 2025, Samuel L. Jackson (actor) debuted as Russell Lee Washington Jr. in Tulsa King Season 3.
The character is a former assassin linked to Dwight Manfredi by their prison history.
Rather than kill Dwight, Russell warns him, and they form an alliance against their common enemy Ray.
The episode foreshadows the NOLA King spinoff, where Russell returns to New Orleans after 40 years to reclaim his family.

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