Samuel L. Jackson Stars in NOLA King Spinoff, Marks TV Debut
Samuel L. Jackson is set to make his television lead role debut in the much-anticipated spinoff series, NOLA King. This new project, announced by Paramount+ on July 17, 2025, is the brainchild of Taylor Sheridan, known for creating Tulsa King. In NOLA King, Jackson portrays Russell Lee Washington Jr., an ex-convict who returns to his hometown of New Orleans after four decades.
NOLA King: Key Details
- Character: Russell Lee Washington Jr.
- Role: Ex-con navigating the crime scene
- Setting: New Orleans
- Initial Appearance: Tulsa King Season 3 (premiered September 21, 2025)
- Production Start: Early 2026
- Exclusive Platform: Paramount+
About the Character
Russell Lee Washington Jr. serves as a connection between Tulsa King and its spinoff. His arrival in Tulsa King Season 3 positions him as an antagonist confronting the character Dwight Manfredi, played by Sylvester Stallone. Their past from prison shapes the storyline leading into NOLA King’s exploration of Washington’s reintegration into the city’s crime scene.
Jackson’s Career Shift
Throughout his illustrious career, Jackson has appeared in over 150 films. However, he has largely avoided the television landscape until now. His previous roles on TV were limited to animated projects and guest appearances. NOLA King represents a turning point, allowing Jackson to develop a complex character over multiple seasons, a rarity in film.
Reflecting on this new opportunity, Jackson expressed his enthusiasm about joining Sheridan’s expansive crime universe, stating his happiness in being part of the narrative fabric. The series provides a unique chance for an in-depth character study, significantly different from the brief roles often seen in movies.
Future of the Franchise
NOLA King is poised to enrich the ongoing Tulsa King saga, which airs weekly on Paramount+. Jackson’s character serves as a major antagonist in Season 3, setting the stage for the spinoff. The production aims for a late 2026 or early 2027 release, further extending Sheridan’s crime storytelling universe, which already includes Yellowstone and Mayor of Kingstown.
Conclusion
Jackson’s role in NOLA King challenges traditional casting norms in premium dramas, where younger leads typically dominate. As he approaches 76, this series allows him to explore a morally complex character in a meaningful way. The impact of this casting choice may inspire other prominent film actors to pursue television leads, highlighting a shift in how prestigious talent engages with streaming platforms.
