Samuel L. Jackson has officially joined the cast of Tulsa King, marking one of the biggest additions to the Taylor Sheridan television universe to date. The Hollywood veteran made his debut in the Season 3 episode that aired on November 16, 2025. His arrival introduces a new character whose past intersects directly with Dwight Manfredi, creating immediate narrative implications. Paramount+ confirmed that Jackson’s introduction will lead directly into a new spinoff series titled NOLA King. This development expands the growing Sheridan-led crime drama franchise on the streaming platform.
Samuel L. Jackson portrays Russell Lee Washington Jr., a longtime contract killer sent to Tulsa to complete an assignment for the Renzatti crime family. His character shares a complicated prison history with Sylvester Stallone’s Dwight Manfredi, including a life debt that adds tension to their reunion.
The storyline unfolds across the final episodes of Tulsa King Season 3, with Jackson entering at a pivotal point in the narrative. Paramount+ confirmed that this appearance is designed to bridge the current series with NOLA King, which begins production in early 2026 and will follow Russell’s return to New Orleans after four decades away.
Jackson’s inclusion broadens the scope of Taylor Sheridan’s crime-drama network, mirroring the expansion seen in the Yellowstone franchise. The new series will explore Russell’s struggle to navigate criminal rivals, personal vendettas, and long-unresolved family issues.
Industry analysts reacted strongly to the casting move, noting its significance for Paramount+.
Streaming analyst Craig Hollister said Jackson’s arrival “instantly elevates the overall prestige of the Tulsa King universe and signals Paramount+’s intent to compete aggressively in the crime-drama space.”
A senior production source also noted that “Samuel L. Jackson brings a level of presence and narrative tension that reshapes the energy of the final Season 3 arc.”
Samuel L. Jackson’s debut creates major shifts for the Tulsa King franchise. His character’s ties to the Renzatti family and his conflicting loyalty toward Dwight introduce new threats for the final episodes of Season 3.
For Paramount+, the move represents a strategic expansion of an already successful property. The addition of a high-profile actor with global appeal positions the franchise for stronger viewership, increased brand reach, and new international markets.
NOLA King is expected to operate as a darker, more grounded crime drama centered on New Orleans’ criminal undercurrent, which could diversify the tone of Sheridan’s universe.
Paramount+ will release further details about NOLA King in early 2026, including casting updates and episode counts. Additional information on Samuel L. Jackson’s number of Season 3 appearances in Tulsa King is expected once the final two episodes air. Stallone’s involvement in the spinoff has not yet been confirmed, although producers have not ruled out crossover possibilities.
[Official References Box]
– Paramount+ Press Release
– Variety
– The Hollywood Reporter
– Deadline
– IndieWire
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