Tulsa King: Sylvester Stallone Stars in a Gripping New Crime Series

In Tulsa King, Sylvester Stallone makes his streaming series debut, transforming into Dwight “The General” Manfredi, a hardened mafia capo who finds himself in a totally foreign environment. After spending 25 years in prison for a crime he committed on behalf of the New York mafia, Dwight expects a warm welcome and a fresh start within his old syndicate upon release. However, his bosses have a different plan. Rather than bringing him back to New York, the mob “rewards” him by sending him off to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to start a new criminal enterprise in a city where organized crime is practically nonexistent.

The series expertly mixes crime drama with elements of dark comedy, offering viewers a unique story as Dwight adjusts to his exile. While the character is well-versed in the art of organized crime, he’s unfamiliar with the modern world after decades behind bars. His struggles with modern technology and cultural shifts add humor and depth to the story, allowing Tulsa King to stand out from other crime TV shows in 2023.

Episode Guide and Key Story Arcs

Tulsa King is structured around Dwight’s journey as he assembles a team of misfit locals to help him establish a foothold in Tulsa’s underworld. The Tulsa King season 1 episodes follow his encounters with various Tulsa residents—some of whom become allies, while others turn into obstacles in his quest for power. One of the most engaging aspects of this crime TV show is how it highlights the differences between Dwight’s old-school mob methods and the more laid-back, almost lawless attitude of Tulsa’s underground scene.

In the first episodes, Dwight quickly learns that running a crime operation in Tulsa won’t be as straightforward as he initially thought. He meets Mitch Keller, a local bar owner with a rough past, who quickly becomes his right-hand man. Through Mitch, Dwight is introduced to the city’s network of small-time criminals, and he starts to build his own syndicate, using his New York experience to lay down the law. However, this isn’t New York, and Tulsa King doesn’t shy away from exploring the cultural and logistical challenges Dwight faces in transferring his mafia knowledge to a smaller, more rural setting.

One notable episode, which some might see as the show’s highlight, focuses on Dwight’s relationship with his estranged daughter, who lives on the East Coast. While Dwight tries to forge a new empire in Oklahoma, he’s haunted by the family and life he lost to his mob commitments. This adds an emotional layer to the plot, making Dwight more than just a tough mafia figure; he’s a father, a man trying to rediscover purpose after being locked up.

Characters and Cast

Sylvester Stallone’s portrayal of Dwight Manfredi has received rave Tulsa King reviews for blending grit with a sense of vulnerability, giving a multifaceted portrayal that keeps viewers hooked. Stallone’s role here is a significant draw, making Tulsa King a must-watch for fans of gritty dramas and crime series. Alongside Stallone, the series features a strong cast, including Andrea Savage as Stacy Beale, a determined ATF agent who finds herself drawn to Dwight despite her instincts.

The Tulsa King cast adds depth to the series, creating a roster of unique characters who each bring something different to the table. Tyson, played by Jay Will, is one of Dwight’s new recruits—a young, ambitious Tulsa native eager to prove himself. Together, Dwight, Tyson, and Mitch form an unlikely team of outcasts determined to establish themselves in the city’s underground scene. Their dynamic showcases how Dwight’s influence extends beyond crime, revealing his surprising role as a mentor to Tulsa’s locals.

Filming Locations and Setting

Tulsa King’s filming locations play a significant role in the series’ appeal, capturing the landscapes and atmosphere of rural Oklahoma. The choice of Tulsa as a setting reflects the clash between big-city crime and small-town life, adding a fresh twist to traditional mafia stories. The series effectively uses Tulsa’s streets and countryside to highlight Dwight’s sense of isolation and disorientation as he navigates a world far removed from New York.

For fans interested in the background of this unique crime TV show, understanding the filming locations enriches the viewing experience. Tulsa King captures the essence of Oklahoma, using the scenery to reinforce Dwight’s outsider status. This isolated environment creates a “fish-out-of-water” scenario that both challenges and strengthens his character.

Why Tulsa King Is One of the Best Crime TV Shows of 2023

Unlike traditional mafia series set in bustling urban areas, Tulsa King offers a fresh take by relocating the mafia to a quiet, unsuspecting place. This unique premise has resonated well with audiences, making Tulsa King one of the best new crime TV shows of 2023. With Stallone at the forefront and a mix of action, comedy, and emotional depth, the series provides a distinctive story that continues to draw in viewers each week.

For anyone looking for shows like Tulsa King, there are few series that can match its combination of mafia drama with rural Americana. However, fans of character-driven crime series with unexpected humor may also enjoy shows like Breaking Bad or Yellowstone.

Tulsa King Finale Explained: The Future of Dwight Manfredi

As season one concludes, Tulsa King leaves fans with many questions about Dwight’s future. The Tulsa King season 1 finale explained reveals that despite his accomplishments in Tulsa, Dwight’s troubles are far from over. His complex relationships and his past continue to haunt him, setting up the potential for a second season filled with new challenges and enemies.

Tulsa King’s unique premise, stellar cast, and compelling story arcs make it one of the standout series of the year. Through Dwight’s journey, the series sheds light on how crime syndicates adapt, even in the least expected places, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting what’s next in Dwight’s journey through the Midwest’s underbelly.