The latest episode of Tulsa King has unveiled a deeply emotional and disturbing backstory involving the characters Jeremiah Dunmire and his son Cole Dunmire. In season 3, episode 6, viewers are confronted with the source of the ongoing tension between the father-and-son duo, shedding light on the complexities of their relationship.
A pivotal flashback reveals the tragic death of Jeremiah’s eldest son during combat, leaving Cole as the surviving child. This loss has heavily influenced Jeremiah’s feelings towards Cole, leading to a strained relationship characterized by resentment. The episode illustrates how Jeremiah’s bitterness has intensified over time, particularly in response to Cole’s choices, such as his preference for camouflage clothing, which serves as a painful reminder of his deceased brother.
In an interview with TV Insider, both actors discussed the profound impact of this backstory on their characters. Actor Michael Raymond-James, who portrays Cole, elaborated on the complexities of his character. He noted that Cole is not merely seeking his father’s approval; he is also burdened by the desire to fill the void left by his brother’s death. “He is trying to replace his brother, trying to replace his mother, trying to do everything he can to make this man happy, or who used to be nice,” Raymond-James explained.
When asked about the possibility of Cole earning Jeremiah’s respect, actor Dominic Lombardozzi, who plays Jeremiah, expressed skepticism. He believes that the idealized image of his first son is too perfect for anyone, including Cole, to measure up to. Despite this, Lombardozzi hinted that Jeremiah may eventually come to terms with the unfairness of his expectations towards Cole, suggesting a potential turning point in their relationship.
“There is going to be a moment where Jeremiah stops himself and realizes what he was about to do. It’s a moment of real clarity, and yet there’s a lot of vulnerability with it,” Lombardozzi noted. This scene promises to explore the depths of their dynamic further, revealing the challenges both characters face in their quest for understanding and reconciliation.
The narrative arc in Tulsa King continues to captivate audiences, delving into themes of loss, redemption, and the complexities of familial relationships. As the series progresses, viewers are left to ponder whether Jeremiah and Cole can ever bridge the emotional chasm that has developed between them.
The show, which premiered on November 13, 2022, has garnered attention for its compelling storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Stallone as Dwight Manfredi. The exploration of father-son dynamics adds a layer of depth to the crime drama, ensuring that audiences remain engaged as the series unfolds on Paramount+.
