Two Major Losses Shape Dwight’s Future as Sylvester Stallone Officially Confirms Why Tulsa King Had to Kill, Spoiler

Deaths That Drive the Story

Season 4 of Tulsa King is streaming on Paramount+ after the show received a Season 5 renewal. The new season opens with two major losses for Dwight Manfredi, including the death of Thresher, played by Neal McDonough.

Speaking with Collider’s Steve Weintraub, Stallone described the deaths as part of the creative plan he shares with head writer and executive producer Terence Winter. He referenced the “Game of Thrones Syndrome” while explaining the approach.

Dwight’s Future in Tulsa

Stallone discussed the longer-term direction of Dwight’s story and how he sees it ending. Dwight is focused on protecting the family he has built in Tulsa as new enemies emerge and loyalties face pressure.

The interview also considered which character deaths could be especially damaging to Dwight. The first two episodes establish that gains in his growing empire come with consequences.

Stallone Reflects on I Play Rocky

Stallone said he watched I Play Rocky alone and found the film extraordinary and life-affirming. He said seeing another person portray his earlier struggle made him recognize the story’s inspirational quality.

He described the film as an American Dream story. Stallone also recalled watching audiences react to Rocky in 1976 and said he was struck by the parallels with the response to the new film.

Other Projects in the Conversation

The interview also touched on Stallone’s work with Samuel L. Jackson in Frisco King, a spin-off series with Taylor Sheridan. Stallone discussed his hopes for future Tulsa King seasons as well. The conversation covered his reaction to I Play Rocky, directed by Peter Farrelly, alongside the show’s plans for Dwight and the consequences of its character deaths.