The initial sighting of Samuel L. Jackson and Sylvester Stallone together for Tulsa King Season 3 has been officially released, causing huge buzz among fans and industry watchers. The new photo, released by Stallone himself, features both actors in character, their first on-screen pairing.
Jackson's entry in the show is as Russell Lee Washington Jr., a new addition who the show seems to be adding an important role for the next season. According to reports, Jackson's character will clash with Stallone's Dwight Manfredi, and their chemistry is bound to mold the prime story of Season 3.
This collaboration is special not just due to the starry billing but also because it leads to a spinoff down the line, with Jackson being set for his own series, NOLA King, following his stint on Tulsa King. The arrival of Jackson's character heralds a new era for the franchise, broadening its scope and heightening anticipation for the upcoming season.
Samuel L. Jackson's role and first look
Adding Samuel L. Jackson to the cast of Tulsa King introduces a new energy to the show. He will be playing Russell Lee Washington Jr., a newcomer whose drive sets him against Dwight Manfredi. The first image of Jackson and Stallone together on set was shared by Stallone, indicating the significance of their on-screen interactions.
Jackson’s character is expected to build his own criminal empire in Oklahoma, which will likely create tension and conflict with Manfredi’s established crew. This plot is going to take center stage in Season 3, with Jackson's character already being hinted at as an integral component of what happens in the new series.
Tulsa King season 3: Production status and cast return
Production of Tulsa King Season 3 started in March 2025, with shooting done in Oklahoma as well as Atlanta to preserve the series' gritty tone. Sylvester Stallone reprises his role as Dwight Manfredi, with Jay Will, Max Casella, Andrea Savage, Martin Starr, Garrett Hedlund, Vincent Piazza, Dana Delany, and Annabella Sciorra making up the core cast.
Robert Patrick, Beau Knapp, Kevin Pollack, Bella Heathcote, and James Russo are the new faces this season are who are bringing new characters and plots into the series. The season will be directed by Jim McKay, with Dave Erickson stepping in as the sole showrunner. The official release date for Season 3 has not yet been announced, but it is expected to premiere in Fall 2025.
Story developments and franchise expansion
Season 2 of Tulsa King ended with Dwight Manfredi’s businesses going legitimate, providing a legal front for his operations. The season finale also included Manfredi being kidnapped by an unknown organization, which sets the stage for new obstacles for the character in Season 3.
Jackson's introduction of Russell Lee Washington Jr. brings a new adversary, as he tries to build his own criminal empire in Oklahoma. This competition is predicted to fuel a lot of the drama and action in the next season.
Apart from Tulsa King, Jackson served as a member of the team that will lead the spinoff series called NOLA King following Season 3, pushing them further into the universe and franchise.
Stay tuned for more updates!