Samuel L. Jackson is making a remarkable return, trading Hollywood glamour for the gritty criminal world. Best known for his iconic portrayal of Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Jackson was most recently seen in Afterburn. He now returns to carry forward Sylvester Stallone's Tulsa King legacy, infusing his newest role with unparalleled intensity.

Samuel L. Jackson will assume the role of Russell Lee Washington Jr., a seasoned hitman seeking redemption in Paramount+'s NOLA King. The character first appeared in Tulsa King Season 3, establishing a clear link between the two series. Jackson brings gravitas and intensity, dominating the screen as only he can.

Russell Lee Washington Jr. forged an unbreakable bond with Dwight Manfredi during ten years in federal prison. Loyalty outweighed mob obligations, and Washington refused to execute Dwight under the Renzetti family’s command.

According to Paramount+, this defiance immediately forced him to flee New York, placing him in peril. Washington returns to New Orleans after forty years, setting the city as the stage for reinvention and confrontation. Old enemies, estranged family, and past loyalties challenge him at every turn. Inspired by Dwight’s success, Washington seeks to reclaim power and control his destiny.

As Samuel L. Jackson is set for his role in NOLA King, it evokes memories of his iconic past performances, filling a void fans have long felt, but with a new kick.

How Samuel L. Jackson's role as Russell feels similar yet different

Samuel L. Jackson’s role as Russell Lee Washington Jr. in NOLA King mirrors his previous portrayals of hitmen and criminal enforcers. Like Jules Winnfield in Pulp Fiction, Washington possesses experience, cunning, and a philosophical outlook shaped by the criminal world.

Unlike Jackson’s past roles, Russell Lee Washington Jr. is a central figure, carrying the narrative as the lead protagonist. This differs from supporting roles such as Ordell Robbie in Jackie Brown or Stacks Edwards in Goodfellas, where Jackson supported larger storylines.

Washington combines the ruthlessness of Frank Moten in Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist with the personal depth of Darius Kincaid in The Hitman’s Bodyguard. The character shows both strategic brutality and a reflective desire to reclaim control over his life.

NOLA King also emphasizes Washington’s reinvention, returning to New Orleans after decades away. This contrasts with his previous characters, who were primarily enforcers, highlighting Jackson’s evolution into a leader.

What do you think of Jackson's role in NOLA King? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Iffat Siddiqui

Edited by

Itti Mahajan