Tulsa King
Tulsa King (Paramount Television Studios)

Tulsa King Season 3 Ending Explained: Betrayal, Family, and Future Conflicts

Tulsa King season 3 concludes with a dramatic and dangerous assault on Jeremiah Dunmire’s compound after the kidnapping of Joanne Manfredi. Dwight and his team, supported by an unexpected ally, manage to rescue her and bring everyone home safely. Although the finale wraps up the central conflict, several character choices remain puzzling, and multiple threads clearly set the stage for season 4.

Cole Dunmire’s decision to betray his father becomes one of the biggest twists of the finale. While it appears surprising at first, the season has steadily built toward this moment. Cole suffers physical and emotional abuse, constant belittlement, and exclusion from the family business. When he learns that Jeremiah abducted Joanne, he finally decides he has had enough and helps Dwight’s crew infiltrate the estate.

Cole’s Moral Struggle and Dwight’s Complicated Deal Shape Tulsa King Season Three

Cole’s betrayal is rooted in both personal principle and a desire for independence. Throughout season 3, he consistently displays a moral compass that contrasts with Jeremiah’s brutality. He protects Spencer, warns Tyson about the bombing, and shows discomfort regarding the crimes he is forced to commit. His decision to turn on Jeremiah reflects his need to escape his father’s control and end the destructive cycle of violence.

Tulsa King
Tulsa King (Paramount Television Studios)

Agent Musso leaves the season on a tense note by insisting that Dwight still owes him a favor. Their arrangement regarding bombmaker Dexter Deacon technically ends with exchanged information and valuable federal liquor licenses for Dwight. However, Dwight killed Deacon rather than delivering him alive, which left Musso with only part of what he wanted. Musso also sees Dwight as a highly useful informant, which gives him every reason to keep Dwight under his influence in season 4.

Cal Thresher’s Victory Signals Political Upheaval and Rising Conflicts for Tulsa King’s Future

Cal Thresher wins the Oklahoma governor’s race in a landslide, which is surprising given his early unpopularity. Margaret’s political expertise and connections transform his image, while the bombing at his campaign rally generates public sympathy. Dwight’s pressure on the Attorney General also helps secure the win. Once elected, Cal hints that he plans to abandon Dwight, which suggests he may cause new problems or even become a full antagonist in season 4.

Samuel L. Jackson’s character, Russell Lee Washington Jr., appears only briefly but plays a significant role in shaping future stories. His move to New Orleans prepares the ground for the spinoff series NOLA King, where he hopes to build his own criminal network. Lee has the advantage of being familiar with the city, and he can call on Dwight when needed. However, the danger posed by Quiet Ray’s hired killers will create new tension in the spinoff.

Season 3 explores the meaning of family and the responsibilities that come with it. The contrast between Jeremiah and Dwight reveals the show’s central message. Jeremiah tears down Cole with cruelty and abuse, while Dwight protects the people he cares about and is willing to risk everything for them. Dwight’s victory reflects the idea that loyalty, compassion, and mutual support form the foundation of a strong family, while neglect and abuse only lead to ruin.