adminThe hit Paramount+ series Tulsa King has captured the hearts of viewers with its gripping storyline, sharp writing, and a stellar cast that brings the narrative to life. Created by Taylor Sheridan, the mastermind behind Yellowstone and Mayor of Kingstown, Tulsa King blends elements of crime drama and dark comedy, revolving around a New York mafia capo who finds himself rebuilding his empire in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Let’s dive into the talented cast that has made this series a standout.
Sylvester Stallone as Dwight “The General” Manfredi
At the heart of Tulsa King is Sylvester Stallone in the lead role of Dwight Manfredi, a New York mafia capo who is exiled to Tulsa after spending 25 years in prison. This marks Stallone’s first leading role in a television series, and his performance is nothing short of spectacular. Known for his iconic roles in Rocky and Rambo, Stallone brings a mix of toughness, charisma, and vulnerability to Dwight, making him a compelling antihero.
Dwight’s journey in Tulsa King explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and adaptation as he navigates the unfamiliar terrain of Oklahoma. Stallone’s nuanced portrayal of a man out of place yet determined to thrive has garnered critical acclaim and resonated with audiences.
Andrea Savage as Stacy Beale
Andrea Savage plays Stacy Beale, a smart and determined ATF agent who becomes entangled with Dwight’s operations. Best known for her comedic roles in I’m Sorry and Veep, Savage showcases her versatility in Tulsa King, balancing her character’s professional obligations with personal conflicts.
Stacy’s interactions with Dwight add complexity to the series, as her role blurs the lines between ally and adversary. Savage’s performance brings depth to a character that could easily have been overshadowed by the larger-than-life figure of Dwight.
Max Casella as Armand Truisi
Max Casella portrays Armand Truisi, a local mobster who has his own ambitions in Tulsa. Casella, known for his work in The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire, is no stranger to portraying morally complex characters. In Tulsa King, Armand serves as a foil to Dwight, creating tension and conflict that drives the narrative forward.
Casella’s portrayal captures the essence of a man torn between loyalty and self-preservation, making Armand a key player in the series’ intricate web of relationships.
Martin Starr as Bodhi
Martin Starr takes on the role of Bodhi, a laid-back and slightly quirky dispensary owner who becomes one of Dwight’s unlikely allies. Starr, famous for his roles in Silicon Valley and Freaks and Geeks, brings his signature comedic timing to the series while also adding layers of depth to his character.
Bodhi’s partnership with Dwight highlights the unlikely friendships that form as Dwight builds his new criminal empire. Starr’s performance adds levity to the show while maintaining its gritty tone.
Jay Will as Tyson
Jay Will plays Tyson, a young and ambitious cab driver who quickly becomes Dwight’s right-hand man. Tyson’s character serves as a bridge between Dwight and the unfamiliar world of Tulsa. As a newcomer to the crime drama genre, Will impresses with his ability to hold his own alongside seasoned actors like Stallone.
Tyson’s loyalty and eagerness to prove himself make him a fan favorite, and Will’s performance captures the essence of a character caught between ambition and danger.
Vincent Piazza as Vince Antonacci
Vincent Piazza portrays Vince Antonacci, a mobster from New York who represents the old guard of the mafia. Piazza, known for his roles in Boardwalk Empire and Jersey Boys, delivers a compelling performance that underscores the generational divide within organized crime.
Vince’s interactions with Dwight reflect the changing dynamics of the mafia and add an additional layer of tension to the series. Piazza’s portrayal is both menacing and relatable, making Vince a memorable part of the ensemble.
Garrett Hedlund as Mitch Keller
Garrett Hedlund plays Mitch Keller, a local bar owner and Dwight’s first genuine friend in Tulsa. Hedlund, who has appeared in films like Tron: Legacy and Mudbound, brings a grounded and relatable presence to the series. Mitch serves as a confidant and advisor to Dwight, offering him insights into the local culture and helping him navigate his new environment.
Hedlund’s chemistry with Stallone adds authenticity to their on-screen friendship, making Mitch a key player in Dwight’s journey.
Dana Delany as Margaret
Dana Delany portrays Margaret, a wealthy and influential figure in Tulsa’s high society. Delany, an Emmy-winning actress known for her work in China Beach and Desperate Housewives, brings elegance and gravitas to her role. Margaret’s interactions with Dwight highlight the clash between Tulsa’s traditional elite and the outsider’s attempts to establish dominance.
Delany’s performance adds a touch of sophistication to the series, making Margaret a fascinating character who keeps audiences guessing about her true intentions.
Annabella Sciorra as Joanne
Annabella Sciorra plays Joanne, Dwight’s estranged sister. Sciorra, celebrated for her work in The Sopranos, delivers an emotionally charged performance that delves into Dwight’s personal life and the consequences of his criminal past. Joanne’s strained relationship with Dwight provides a poignant counterpoint to the action-packed storyline, grounding the series in real emotional stakes.
Supporting Cast and Guest Stars
In addition to its main cast, Tulsa King features a talented lineup of supporting actors and guest stars who enrich the storytelling:
- Domenick Lombardozzi as Don Charles “Chickie” Invernizzi, a mafia boss with a volatile personality.
- A.C. Peterson as Pete “The Rock” Invernizzi, Chickie’s father and a senior figure in the mafia.
- Tatiana Zappardino as Tina Manfredi, Dwight’s estranged daughter, whose relationship with her father adds emotional depth to the series.
Each of these actors brings a unique flavor to the series, enhancing its narrative complexity and ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Why Tulsa King Stands Out
The success of Tulsa King can be attributed to its exceptional cast, which combines veteran actors with rising stars. Each performer brings their A-game, creating a rich tapestry of characters that are both relatable and larger-than-life. Stallone’s magnetic presence anchors the show, but it’s the ensemble’s chemistry that truly sets Tulsa King apart from other crime dramas.
Final Thoughts
The cast of Tulsa King is a masterclass in storytelling through performance. From Sylvester Stallone’s iconic turn as Dwight Manfredi to the dynamic supporting cast, each actor contributes to the series’ gripping narrative and emotional depth. With its blend of action, humor, and heartfelt moments, Tulsa King has carved out a unique space in the television landscape, and its talented cast is a big reason why.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of crime dramas or new to the genre, Tulsa King offers a fresh and compelling take, brought to life by one of the most impressive ensembles on television today.
