Expanding the Tulsa King Universe: Introducing Russell Lee Washington Jr. and the NOLA King Spinoff
The Tulsa King universe is expanding with the introduction of a new character, Russell Lee Washington Jr., played by Samuel L. Jackson. Jackson's debut in the final two episodes of Season 3 sets the stage for his own spinoff series, NOLA King, which is scheduled to start production in early 2026. This casting move adds another heavyweight to Taylor Sheridan's Paramount+ empire, joining stars like Kevin Costner, Zoe Saldana, and Sylvester Stallone, who plays mafia capo Dwight "The General" Manfredi in Tulsa King.
In the Tulsa King finale, Russell Lee Washington Jr. enters the scene as a mob enforcer with a history tied to Dwight. The two characters share a past connection from their time in federal prison, where Dwight once saved Russell's life. When Russell resurfaces years later, he is hired to eliminate Dwight by Ray, unaware of the loyalty that still exists between the former inmates. Instead of carrying out the hit, Russell warns Dwight of the danger, leading to an alliance that shifts the power dynamics in Tulsa and sets the stage for the NOLA King spinoff.
NOLA King will follow Russell as he returns to New Orleans after abandoning the city over four decades ago. He aims to rebuild relationships with his family and reclaim control of the criminal underworld he once ruled, all while confronting unresolved issues from his past. Sylvester Stallone, who stars in Tulsa King, has praised Jackson's addition to the cast, describing their on-set dynamic as a battle and a blessing that evolved into a strong working relationship.
Production for NOLA King is set to commence in February 2026, with an expected premiere in late 2026 or early 2027. The Tulsa King Season 3 finale is scheduled to air on Paramount+ on Sunday, November 23. The intertwining storylines and character developments in Tulsa King and the upcoming NOLA King promise an exciting expansion of the Tulsa King universe.