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Samuel L. Jackson just landed a major new role that will change his career trajectory. The legendary actor is starring in Frisco King, a Taylor Sheridan spinoff that’s already creating massive buzz. Here’s everything you need to know about this game-changing project.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Lead Star: Samuel L. Jackson plays Russell Lee Washington Jr., a hitman-turned-entrepreneur
- Creator Magic: Taylor Sheridan is writing all 8 episodes of the debut season, ensuring singular creative vision
- Spinoff Status: Frisco King expands the Tulsa King universe, which already has 3 seasons of critical acclaim
- Production Timeline: Filming begins late March 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas, with 2027 premiere expected
The Plot That’s Already Turning Heads
Frisco King follows Russell Lee Washington Jr., the character Samuel L. Jackson introduced in Tulsa King Season 3. Lee was a feared hitman for New York mobsters who formed a bond with Dwight Manfredi (played by Sylvester Stallone) in federal prison 20 years prior.
After declining an assignment to kill Dwight, Lee escapes to Frisco, Texas, where he’s determined to start a completely new enterprise and crime-free life. The spinoff explores this redemption arc and Lee’s schemes in Texas. This character shift provides fresh storytelling potential that fans have been waiting for since his Season 3 debut.
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Why Taylor Sheridan Writing All Episodes Matters
Taylor Sheridan doesn’t write half measures. The acclaimed creator, who built Yellowstone and Tulsa King into cultural phenomena, is penning all 8 episodes of Frisco King’s first season singlehandedly.
This decision signals exceptional confidence in the project’s potential. Sheridan’s fingerprints on every script means viewers get consistent creative quality, tight storytelling, and his signature blend of crime drama with character depth. Paramount+ head Jane Wiseman already praised the move, stating it would deliver “singular voice” storytelling.
The Powerhouse Cast Assembly
Beyond Samuel L. Jackson, Frisco King is assembling an impressive ensemble. Asa Germann from Gen V joins as Teddy, a sharp college dropout who catches Lee’s attention. Kai Caster plays Keith, a polite hotel valet, while Lilah Pate and Savanna Gann round out the cast as London and Avery, two cheerleaders Lee recruits.
Directors Christina Alexandra Voros and Michael Friedman will helm multiple episodes. Executive producers include Sylvester Stallone, David C. Glasser, Ron Burkle, and several other Oscar-nominated creatives. This isn’t a modest spinoff. It’s a prestige television event with A-list talent both in front and behind the camera.
| Detail | Information |
| Platform | Paramount+ |
| Episodes Season 1 | 8 episodes |
| Filming Location | Fort Worth, Texas (late March 2026) |
| Expected Premiere | Early 2027 |
“Taylor Sheridan continues to build worlds that attract some of the most iconic talent working today. Having Samuel L. Jackson step into this universe is a testament to the scale and ambition of the storytelling Taylor is crafting.”
— Jane Wiseman, Head of Originals at Paramount+
How It Connects to Tulsa King’s Universe
For fans unfamiliar with Tulsa King, knowing the connection enhances the spinoff’s appeal. Russell Lee Washington Jr. first appeared in Tulsa King Season 3 episodes “Dead Weight” and “Jesus Lizard,” where he bonded with the main character Dwight Manfredi over their shared prison history.
Lee is described as “the best hitman there ever was” by Dwight, establishing his legendary status before his Frisco King arc. This foundation means viewers don’t need extensive backstory. The spinoff naturally expands an already-beloved universe while introducing fresh dynamics and a new setting that promises different crime narratives.
What Does This Mean for Samuel L. Jackson’s Career?
This is a significant project for the Oscar-nominated actor. Frisco King offers Jackson a leading role in a prestige streaming drama helmed by one of television’s hottest creators. It’s different from his blockbuster Marvel roles, allowing him to showcase dramatic range in a morally complex character study.
Will Frisco King become the next Tulsa King, captivating audiences and launching multiple seasons? The early indicators suggest yes. Only time will tell if this Texas-set crime drama becomes appointment television.
Sources
- Paramount+ – Official Frisco King series announcement and Taylor Sheridan creative details
- Variety – Cast announcements including Asa Germann, Kai Caster, and production updates
- TV Insider – Premiere date expectations and Tulsa King spinoff connection information
