Samuel L. Jackson makes his explosive debut on Tulsa King in Season 3. He plays Russell Lee Washington Jr., a dangerous contract killer. This appearance introduces his character before the NOLA King spinoff. The Paramount+ episode aired on November 16, 2025.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Jackson appears as Russell Lee Washington Jr., a veteran assassin and former prison mate.
- Episode aired November 16, 2025 on Paramount+ in the penultimate Season 3 slot.
- Jackson’s character sets up the spinoff series NOLA King, premiering early 2026.
- Russell returns to New Orleans after 40 years to reclaim family ties and criminal control.
- Sylvester Stallone called the franchise expansion “game-changing” for the Tulsa King universe.
What Happened in the Latest Episode
Russell Lee Washington Jr. makes his entrance in style during the penultimate Tulsa King Season 3 episode. The character arrives after carrying out a shocking hit in Newark. “Quiet Ray Renzatti” calls Russell in to complete a crucial final job.
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Here’s the twist: Russell and Dwight know each other from prison. Jackson’s character owes Dwight a massive debt after Dwight saved his life decades ago. When Russell faces Dwight at Bred-2-Buck, he refuses to pull the trigger. Instead, he chooses loyalty over money.
“Chris McCarthy came to me with a game-changing idea: to elevate my show beyond a mob boss series, creating a dynamic, family-driven franchise.”
The tension escalates when Ray sends additional enforcers to Tulsa. Russell teams up with Dwight and they face off with Ray’s men. Police flood the motel scene, but danger remains as Ray’s associate Vince watches from afar.
Why This Matters for the Franchise
This episode plants crucial seeds for the NOLA King spinoff series. Jackson anchors an ambitious expansion of the Tulsa King universe. Paramount+ greenlit the project back in July 2025, recognizing Jackson’s massive global appeal.
Streaming fans are excited about this franchise growth. Jackson brings heavyweight star power to the crime drama space. The Tulsa King Season 3 finale drops on November 23, 2025 on Paramount+. NOLA King begins filming early 2026.
The spinoff signals Taylor Sheridan’s vision for a broader crime universe. Following Yellowstone’s successful model, this expansion could deliver multiple interconnected shows. Jackson’s character brings gravitas and unpredictability to the crime landscape.
Russell’s Journey: From Assassin to Family Man
According to Paramount+, Russell Lee Washington Jr. has spent decades as an assassin for hire. The Renzetti crime family controls him from New York. After his encounter with Dwight in Season 3, his life trajectory shifts.
| Character Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Russell Lee Washington Jr. |
| Portrayed By | Samuel L. Jackson |
| Occupation | Veteran Contract Killer & Mob Enforcer |
| Prison Relationship | Befriended Dwight during 10 years in federal prison |
| Tulsa King Appearance | Season 3, Episode 9 – “Dead Weight” (Nov 16) |
| Spinoff Show | NOLA King – Paramount+ original series |
Russell then returns to New Orleans after 40 years away. He seeks family reconciliation and criminal dominance. The NY mob threatens retaliation. Local New Orleans enemies circle like sharks. This creates perfect drama for the complete series.
What to Watch For This Season
The Tulsa King Season 3 finale airs Sunday, November 23 on Paramount+. Here’s what to expect:
- Russell’s relationship with Dwight faces massive tests.
- Ray Renzatti escalates threats to both characters.
- Season 3 cliffhanger sets up NOLA King storylines.
- Jackson’s charisma dominates the final two episodes.
- Series finale likely confirms NOLA King production timeline.
Episodes release every week on Paramount+. New episodes drop at 3 AM ET on Sundays. Fans can binge all 10 episodes by late November 2025, setting up the spinoff perfectly.
Is This the Start of Something Bigger?
Taylor Sheridan built success with sprawling crime universes. The Tulsa King franchise mirrors this strategy beautifully. Samuel L. Jackson joining signals serious ambition for Paramount+.
Jackson brings decades of action and thriller credibility. His filmography includes Shaft, The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, and countless iconic roles. NOLA King attracts A-list talent when Jackson headlines.
Are you ready for Jackson’s full emergence in NOLA King? Will Russell Lee Washington Jr. become central to a massive crime saga? The answer comes early 2026.
Sources
- Paramount+ – Official streaming platform and press releases
- PrimeTimer – Entertainment coverage and industry analysis
- Variety – Original reporting on NOLA King greenlight
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.