Tulsa King Season 2 is a Wild Ride with Gangsters, Wind Farms, and Deception
Sylvester Stallone returns as Dwight “The General” Manfredi in the second season of Tulsa King, bringing more charm, swagger, and grit to the gangster drama that has become a surprise hit. Season 2 ups the ante in every way, introducing new villains, more complex schemes, and expanding the scope of Dwight’s burgeoning Oklahoma empire. While the show’s believability sometimes takes a backseat to its over-the-top antics, Tulsa King never loses sight of what makes it so entertaining: its blend of humor, action, and colorful characters.
Stallone continues to shine as Dwight Manfredi, the aging New York mobster exiled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, who has made the city his own criminal playground. In Season 2, Dwight sets his sights on new ventures, including a bold expansion of his weed business through the unexpected avenue of wind farms. The sheer audacity of this plan is a prime example of the show’s willingness to lean into its quirky, offbeat sense of humor. Even when things get ridiculous, Stallone’s larger-than-life presence keeps the show grounded. He plays Dwight with the perfect mix of toughness and self-awareness, embracing the absurdity of his circumstances while maintaining the air of a seasoned mobster who knows how to get things done.
One of the major highlights of the season is the introduction of two formidable new antagonists: Frank Grillo and Neal McDonough. Both actors bring a menacing energy to their roles, making them worthy adversaries for Dwight. Grillo’s no-nonsense tough guy persona and McDonough’s cold, calculating demeanor provide a fresh dynamic to the series’ power struggles. Their presence heightens the stakes and adds an extra layer of tension, as Dwight finds himself facing challenges on multiple fronts, not just from law enforcement but also from rival criminal factions.
At the heart of Tulsa King Season 2 is the idea of empire-building, as Dwight continues to expand his criminal enterprises in unexpected ways. From buying a car dealership to dabbling in wind energy, Dwight’s business ventures are both creative and comical. The juxtaposition of traditional mafia activities with more modern, almost corporate undertakings adds a fun twist to the show. These moves are not only a clever commentary on how organized crime adapts to changing times, but they also set the stage for plenty of drama and deception.
This season also sees deeper development of the supporting cast, many of whom play crucial roles in Dwight’s schemes and personal life. Garrett Hedlund’s character, Mitch, remains a loyal and trusted confidant, helping Dwight navigate the murky waters of Tulsa’s criminal underworld. Hedlund’s laid-back charm complements Stallone’s intensity, and their chemistry continues to be one of the show’s strongest elements. Dana Delaney, playing Margaret, adds another layer of complexity as a potential love interest for Dwight, but also as someone who knows more than she lets on. Her character keeps audiences guessing about her true intentions, injecting a bit of intrigue into the plot.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Tulsa King is its ability to blend serious crime drama with lighthearted moments. The show doesn’t take itself too seriously, which makes it a joy to watch even when the plot veers into the implausible. Sure, the idea of a mobster running a wind farm or negotiating car sales as part of his empire might stretch credibility, but it’s all part of the charm. The show thrives on these larger-than-life scenarios, knowing full well that viewers are here for the ride, not realism. It’s a world where every character is a little too witty, every scheme a little too ambitious, but that’s exactly what makes it so fun.
What Tulsa King gets right, even in its more outlandish moments, is the sense of camaraderie and family that defines Dwight’s crew. Despite their criminal activities, the characters are likable, and viewers can’t help but root for them. Stallone’s Dwight is a mob boss with a moral code—loyal to his people, protective of his newfound “family,” and determined to succeed in a place where he initially didn’t fit in. The show’s knack for making even the bad guys endearing is a key part of its appeal.
Season 2 also features plenty of action, with explosive confrontations, tense stand-offs, and Dwight’s signature no-nonsense approach to solving problems. Stallone, even at his age, still handles action sequences with ease, reminding us why he’s been a beloved action star for decades. But beyond the brawls and shootouts, the show’s real drama lies in the layers of deception and betrayal that unfold. The deeper Dwight gets into his empire-building, the more he has to navigate treacherous waters—both from enemies and allies who may have their own hidden agendas.
In terms of pacing, Season 2 moves quickly, with each episode packed with developments that keep the story moving forward. The show never lingers too long on any one subplot, which keeps things engaging. The twists and turns come frequently, often from unexpected directions, keeping viewers on their toes. And while some of the character decisions or plot developments may require a suspension of disbelief, the overall tone of the show ensures that these moments are taken in stride.
Ultimately, Tulsa King Season 2 succeeds because it knows exactly what it is: a fun, fast-paced gangster drama that doesn’t take itself too seriously. With a charismatic lead in Stallone, strong supporting performances, and a host of new challenges for Dwight to tackle, the show continues to be a must-watch for fans of crime dramas with a comedic twist. It may not be the most believable show on TV, but that’s part of its appeal—Tulsa King is a wild, entertaining ride, and Season 2 delivers on all fronts.
Ed’s Grade: A-
