Sylvester Stallone’s portrayal of mob boss Dwight “The General” Manfredi continues to draw attention in the fourth season of the Paramount+ series "Tulsa King." The character’s signature silver-topped cane, introduced this season, is inspired by Stallone’s own recovery from spinal fusion surgery earlier this year. Rather than simply reflecting the actor’s temporary use of the cane, the series weaves it into Manfredi’s storyline as a result of an old stab wound from his time in prison.

Stallone, 80, explained that the cane serves both as a symbol of Manfredi’s gangster persona and as a potential weapon, adding a new layer to the character’s presence. The series, known for its graphic season finales, follows Manfredi’s continued rise in the Oklahoma crime scene after his brutal actions at the end of Season 3.

The show marks a significant success for Stallone, who also has a bestselling memoir, "The Steps," and an upcoming biopic, "I Play Rocky," set for release on November 6. The film focuses on the early years of Stallone’s career leading up to the 1976 "Rocky" film. Meanwhile, the "Tulsa King" franchise is expanding with a spinoff titled "Frisco King," starring Samuel L. Jackson. Jackson reprises his role as Russell Lee Washington Jr., building a new criminal empire in Frisco, Texas. Stallone appears in the initial episodes before Washington assumes full control of his operations.

Season 4 of "Tulsa King" introduces heightened challenges for Manfredi, including rivalries with Kansas City mob boss Bill Bevilaqua, played by Frank Grillo, and New York gangster “Quiet Ray” Renzetti, portrayed by James Russo. New characters include Tulsa politician Amanda Clark, played by Gretchen Mol, as well as a storyline involving AI data centers and a powerful tech billionaire, adding a contemporary dimension to the crime drama.

Stallone also addressed criticisms regarding the increased role of his daughter, Scarlet Rose Stallone, who plays stable hand Spencer. Responding to accusations of nepotism, he openly acknowledged it while emphasizing that opportunities for family members come with the expectation of proving their talent. “If you can open the door, we’ll see if they have the ability to go through it,” he said, noting the pressures of performing before a wide audience.

Looking ahead, Manfredi’s ambitions continue to escalate as he aims to lead the National Council of organized crime and become the “boss of bosses.” However, Stallone hinted that these ambitions might bring unforeseen complications, cautioning about the challenges of climbing higher in the criminal hierarchy. On the character’s future, Stallone made it clear that Manfredi will not be killed off whenever the series concludes. Instead of a dramatic death, Stallone joked that the character might simply “get a skin condition and disappear,” expressing a preference to leave the ending ambiguous rather than final.