Sylvester Stallone, known for his iconic roles in Rocky and Rambo, has found fresh success in the streaming world with Tulsa King, where he plays Dwight "The General" Manfredi, a mobster rebuilding his life in Oklahoma. His performance combines tough-guy intensity with unexpected vulnerability, helping the series become one of Paramount+'s standout hits since its 2022 debut. As Season 3 wrapped up late last year, attention turns to Stallone's impressive earnings and the show's future, including the recently confirmed Season 4.
Sylvester Stallone’s Salary Evolution in Tulsa King
Stallone's compensation for Tulsa King has climbed steadily, reflecting the show's growing popularity and his star appeal. For Season 1, he earned about $750,000 per episode, a solid start for the Paramount+ original. By Season 2, that figure doubled to $1.5 million per episode, as viewership surged and critics praised the sharper scripts and deeper character arcs. Now, for Season 3, reports from Puck indicate Stallone pulled in nearly $2 million per episode, marking another significant bump that underscores Paramount+'s investment in keeping him onboard. This progression shows how Stallone's involvement drives the series forward, blending his action-hero legacy with nuanced drama.
Sylvester Stallone stands front and center as Dwight ‘The General’ in Tulsa King, flanked by Big Foot and Tyson, showcasing the power dynamics of the hit Paramount+ series.
Tulsa King Season 3: A Hit That Keeps Delivering
Season 3 premiered on September 21, 2025, continuing the momentum from previous installments with new alliances, betrayals, and high-stakes conflicts for Manfredi. The season featured guest appearances, including Samuel L. Jackson in a memorable role that added layers to the storyline, and it maintained strong audience engagement throughout its run. Building on Season 2's success, where the premiere reached 5.4 million global households in its first week, Season 3 solidified Tulsa King's place among top streaming dramas, often outpacing competitors in viewer retention. Stallone's commanding presence remains central, drawing fans who appreciate his blend of humor and menace.
Season 4 Updates and What Fans Can Expect
Paramount+ confirmed Tulsa King for Season 4 in late 2025, with production kicking off in November, as shared by Stallone himself on social media. The deal, which covers both Seasons 3 and 4, includes a salary increase for Stallone beyond his Season 2 rate, likely aligning with the nearly $2 million per episode for Season 3. New cast additions, such as Gretchen Mol in a regular role as a key character, promise fresh dynamics, while creator Taylor Sheridan and executive producer Terence Winter return to steer the narrative. Although a premiere date hasn't been set, expectations point to a fall 2026 release, continuing the annual cycle that keeps viewers hooked.
Why Stallone’s Earnings Reflect His Enduring Appeal
Stallone's high salary stems from his proven ability to attract audiences, built over decades of box-office triumphs and memorable characters. In Tulsa King, he infuses Manfredi with authenticity, making the role feel lived-in and compelling, which has helped the series achieve record viewership, like Season 2's 13.6 million global households overall. Streaming platforms like Paramount+ prioritize such talent to boost subscriptions, especially in a competitive market where shows must deliver consistent hits. His commitment also signals stability for the franchise, encouraging long-term fan investment.
Sylvester Stallone exudes authority as Dwight ‘The General’ in Tulsa King, seated outdoors in a sharp grey suit, capturing the show’s stylish and commanding tone.
Uncovering More: Key Questions About Tulsa King
When Will Tulsa King Season 4 Premiere on Paramount+?
While Paramount+ has not announced an official premiere date for Season 4, production began in November 2025, suggesting a potential release in late 2026, following the pattern of previous seasons that debuted in the fall. This timeline allows for filming in locations like Oklahoma and Atlanta, ensuring the high production values fans expect, with episodes dropping weekly to build suspense and discussion online. Keep an eye on Stallone's social media for updates, as he often shares behind-the-scenes glimpses that heighten anticipation.
Is Tulsa King Inspired by Real Events or People?
Tulsa King is entirely fictional, crafted by Taylor Sheridan, the mind behind Yellowstone and its expansions, drawing on themes of organized crime, exile, and reinvention without direct ties to real individuals or incidents. Sheridan's storytelling often incorporates realistic elements from American culture, like the oil industry in Oklahoma, but the plot revolves around invented characters and scenarios. This creative freedom allows for dramatic twists, such as Manfredi's fish-out-of-water experiences, which resonate with viewers seeking escapist entertainment rooted in plausible worlds.
What Other Recent Projects Is Sylvester Stallone Involved In?
Beyond Tulsa King, Stallone has stayed active with voice work in animated films, a potential return to the Expendables franchise, and producing documentaries about his career, including the 2023 Netflix feature Sly, which explored his rise in Hollywood. He also mentors emerging talent through his production company and remains involved in fitness ventures, sharing workout tips on social media. These endeavors highlight his versatility, balancing acting with behind-the-camera roles that keep his legacy alive while appealing to new generations.
With Season 4 in production and Stallone's salary highlighting his value, Tulsa King continues to thrive as a gripping blend of crime drama and character study. Fans can look forward to more from "The General," as the series expands its reach and cements Stallone's status in the streaming era.
