Forest Whitaker is set to return as Bumpy Johnson for a fourth season of Godfather of Harlem.
MGM+ made the announcement Wednesday, saying a new 10-episode season has been greenlit, now that the writers and actors strikes have ended.
The series is executive produced by Forest Whitaker, Chris Brancato, Nina Yang Bongiovi, James Acheson, and Markuann Smith.
“After such a long time away, I’m so excited to be returning to set alongside such an incredible cast, crew, and creative team, under the powerful leadership of Chris Brancato,” Forest Whitaker said in a statement. “We’re so appreciative of Michael Wright’s support at MGM+, and thrilled that Godfather of Harlem has resonated with fans around the world. We can’t wait to get to work on season four!”
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“Forest Whitaker’s inspired performance as Bumpy Johnson has introduced an iconic, archetypal television antihero to the premium television landscape,” added Michael Wright, head of MGM+. “The cast and creative team exceed expectations every single season, both creatively and cinematically.”
In addition to Whitaker, the new season will see the return of Ilfenesh Hadera (Mayme Johnson), Lucy Fry (Stella Gigante), Antoinette Crowe-Legacy (Elise), and Erik LaRay Harvey (Del Chance), with more cast details to be announced later.
The series was created by Chris Brancato and the late Paul Eckstein.
“I’m so gratified to continue my creative partnership with Michael Wright, his MGM+ team, and ABC Signature,” said Brancato. “This show has been a labor of love, and we dedicate this season to Paul Eckstein, my friend and co-creator, who passed unexpectedly this summer.”
Here’s the official description for the new season, “Bumpy (Whitaker) continues his bloody war for control of Harlem against New York’s Mafia families, while contending with the emergence of a potential rival in newly arrived Black gangster Frank Lucas. After Malcolm X’s (Jason Alan Carvell) tragic death, Bumpy must also grapple with his daughter Elise’s (Antoinette Crowe-Legacy) involvement with the Black Panthers.”
Production is scheduled to begin in New York City in 2024.
Godfather of Harlem is one of MGM+’s top performing original series. It’s also the platform’s most popular show among African American audiences, according to figures compiled by MGM+. During the third season, 54 percent of the show’s audience was African American.
ABC Signature produces the drama series. Swizz Beatz serves as executive music producer. Stephanie Diaz-Matos is music supervisor.
A premiere date will be announced later.
