Samuel L. Jackson Tulsa King partnership has become a reality following Samuel L. Jackson’s strong efforts to secure a role in the crime drama’s third season. The renowned actor made his debut on Paramount+ in November, after consistently expressing his desire to join the series and notably approaching the producers himself.
Jackson’s Drive and Onset Confidence Noted by Cast
Sylvester Stallone spoke candidly about Jackson’s approach to joining Tulsa King, stating,
“He was the aggressor. He wanted to do it so badly,”
Sylvester Stallone, Actor. Stallone clarified that it was Jackson’s initiative, explaining,
“He went to the producer. The producer came to me,”
Sylvester Stallone, Actor. Once on set, Stallone noticed Jackson’s trademark self-assured attitude, sharing,
“He knows he’s got it. He knows he’s the man. He’s has a certain swagger,”
Sylvester Stallone, Actor.
Describing their scenes together, Stallone compared their dynamic to a classic showdown.
“I feel like, here it comes, high noon. It’s gonna be a gunfight between us two. He brings out the best,”
Sylvester Stallone, Actor. Acting alongside Jackson, according to Stallone, was both daunting and energizing.
“Actors love to be challenged. At first, there may be a little intimidation, but once you get cooking. After the first punch is thrown, now you’re in it,”
Sylvester Stallone, Actor.
Jackson’s Character Arrives in a High-Stakes Role
Fans witnessed Jackson’s first appearance as Russell Lee Washington Jr. during Tulsa King’s penultimate episode of Season 3, titled “Dead Weight,” which aired on November 16. Introduced as a formidable hitman, Russell is brought in by Quiet Ray—played by James Russo—to attempt the assassination of Dwight Manfredi, Sylvester Stallone’s character. This pivotal episode marked a turning point in the storyline, adding intensity with Jackson’s portrayal.
Plans for a Spinoff Build on Jackson’s Arrival
Jackson’s involvement in Tulsa King paves the way for a new chapter with the development of Nola King, a spinoff announced in June. The forthcoming series will follow Russell as he returns to his hometown of New Orleans after 42 years away. According to the show’s official description, Russell will try to restore lost family ties, reclaim the city he once called home, and confront challenges posed by both criminal networks and law enforcement.
Jackson Shares Enthusiasm About Taylor Sheridan’s Growing Universe
Speaking about his entry into Taylor Sheridan’s lineup of television shows, Samuel L. Jackson told Collider that he is “really happy” to be a part of it. He remarked on Sheridan’s extensive slate, saying,
“At least 15 of those shows are on my watchlist all the time,”
Samuel L. Jackson, Actor. Jackson had been a fan of Tulsa King before joining the cast, already keeping a close eye on Sheridan’s expanding universe.
Jackson’s casting not only injects fresh energy into Tulsa King but also widens Sheridan’s crime drama landscape, potentially influencing future television spinoffs and storylines. Both the audience and industry insiders are eager to see how Jackson and Stallone’s on-screen rivalry shapes the show’s trajectory and the new directions promised by Nola King.
