Tulsa King season 3 episode 9 ending explained: Who kidnapped Joanne?

Tulsa King season 3 episode 9 debuted on November 16, 2025, exclusively on Paramount+. Fans have been awaiting the next chapter in the life of Dwight “The General” Manfredi, played by Sylvester Stallone, as he navigates the dangerous world of Tulsa’s underworld.

In season 3, Dwight has been working hard to expand his criminal empire in Tulsa, but he's not doing it without facing serious obstacles. Episode 9, titled Dead Weight, delves deep into the consequences of Dwight's actions and introduces new characters that will change the course of the story.

Disclaimer: The following article contains spoilers from Tulsa King season 3 episode 9. Reader’s discretion is required.

The story of season 3 episode 9 continues from the explosive events of Episode 8. Dwight further strengthens Montague Distilleries' market position by using Deacon's recorded confession to obtain a federal liquor license. His enemies quickly retaliate, ending Dwight's victory.

The episode's ending introduces a major cliffhanger—Joanne, Dwight’s sister, is kidnapped by Jeremiah in an attempt to force Dwight’s hand. Joanne's kidnapping is a calculated move by Jeremiah to leverage Dwight’s emotions, but how will Dwight respond?

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Dwight takes control with Deacon’s confession in Tulsa King season 3 episode 9

Everything about the ending of Tulsa King season 3 episode 9 (Image via YouTube/Paramount+)

Tulsa King season 3 episode 9 conclusion begins with Dwight utilizing Deacon's confession to gain leverage over Musso and get a federal liquor license. Dwight's empire is growing, making him stronger to fight his enemies.

Montague Distilleries succeeds but Dunmire Distilleries struggles as Dwight builds his business. Dwight turns from revenge to empire-building, a major change. Dwight outmaneuvers the FBI and Musso by leveraging Deacon's confession.

Dwight knows he has all the cards with his confession tape and Deacon gone. After seeing Dwight's influence, Musso seems to capitulate, granting him his liquor license. The episode shows Dwight's transformation from a reactionary mobster to a calculated tactician who thinks two moves ahead. Dwight's adversaries are continuously plotting, so this win is short-lived.

Also read: Tulsa King season 3 episode 6 ending explained: Did Musso orchestrate Bill's disappearance?

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Russell's moral dilemma: Will he kill Dwight?

Everything about the ending of Tulsa King season 3 episode 9 (Image via YouTube/Paramount+)

As Dwight’s empire continues to rise, a new threat emerges in the form of Russell Lee Washington Jr., portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson. Russell is an assassin from Dwight’s past, sent by Ray to kill Dwight.

The two old friends have a complicated history, and Dwight quickly realizes Russell was sent to kill him. Russell struggles between his loyalty to Ray and his friendship with Dwight after this revelation. Dwight confronts Russell about his mission, but Russell warns him of the danger.

Russell's decision not to kill Dwight is crucial to the episode. He becomes increasingly morally conflicted and reluctant to play Ray's game. Ray doesn't forgive easily, so Russell's defiance costs him. Russell and Dwight form a temporary alliance to escape a hitman. They team up to fight Ray's growing threats, demonstrating how unpredictable and dangerous life is.

Also read: 7 burning questions Tulsa King season 3 must answer

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Dwight and Russell vs. Ray’s assassins

Everything about the ending of Tulsa King season 3 episode 9 (Image via YouTube/Paramount+)

The episode's highlight is Dwight and Russell facing Ray's hitmen. It appears Ray has dispatched one assassin, but Dwight and Russell soon discover two. Dwight and Russell outwit and defeat the assassins, proving they are still strong at their age. The hotel showdown is brief but fierce, solidifying Dwight's criminal reputation.

After the confrontation, Dwight and Russell return home, only to find that things are about to take a darker turn. Vince, a member of Ray’s team, arrives at the scene and is shocked to find that both of his men are dead. This move by Dwight and Russell is a clear message to Ray, his plan to eliminate Dwight has failed, and Dwight is more dangerous than ever.

Also read: Who is Bigfoot in Tulsa King season 2? Everything you need to know

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Joanne’s kidnapping: Jeremiah strikes back

Everything about the ending of Tulsa King season 3 episode 9 (Image via YouTube/Paramount+)

A shocking twist ends the episode when Jeremiah kidnaps Joanne, Dwight's sister. This is Jeremiah's desperate attempt to weaken Dwight. The power struggle between Dwight and his enemies continues with Joanne's kidnapping.

Dwight has shown he will do anything to protect his empire, but his love for Joanne may be his downfall. Jeremiah uses this to his advantage, making a risky move that could change the story.

Also read: Tulsa King season 3 cast and characters: Meet the stars behind the series and the roles they play

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Every released episode of Tulsa King season 3 is now available to stream on Paramount+.

Edited by Rajan Bhattacharya