Sexiest TV

Godfather of Harlem starts off with a powerful Season 4 premiere a year later after Malcolm X’s assassination, jumping right into courtroom drama and the complex fallout around it. Mrs. Shabazz gives an emotional testimony, naming the men she believes are responsible for her husband’s murder, which resulted in an outburst and warning to remove her from the courtroom. 

Meanwhile, Bumpy Johnson went from trading narcotics to now running a club, but old habits and rivalries are hard to shake off. Vincent Gigante is enjoying Bumpy’s establishment, but the trust is still very slim to none. Bumpy’s daughter, Elise, is determined to prove Omar’s innocence in Malcolm’s murder, despite Bumpy’s strong belief in his guilt. Their differing views lead to one of the episode’s most emotionally charged confrontations. 

Bumpy’s efforts to secure a $3 million loan to build a housing development failed when the bank demanded collateral he’s unwilling to risk such as his family home. Mayme seeks help but finds herself rejected as well. At the same time, Stella is playing a dangerous game of her own, attempting to broker a deal between her father and Joe while keeping her own motives hidden. 

The episode builds to a shocking moment outside Bumpy’s club, where Vincent takes matters into his own hands and kills a dealer operating on Bumpy’s turf with this line to follow, “This is what friends do.” However, despite the bloody “favor,” Bumpy rejects his offer again to partner in rebuilding Harlem.

By the end of the episode, Bumpy finally signs the loan deal, encouraged by Mayme’s powerful reminder that choosing not to poison his community is what Malcolm would’ve wanted. It’s a defining moment which shows Bumpy striving for something greater, even if the streets say otherwise. 

This was a very gripping start to the season with tension-filled, emotionally rich, layered conflict. From Elise fighting for justice, Stella stepping into dangerous territory, and Bumpy making bold moves against powerful enemies, the stage is set for a turbulent season and I am here for the ride. Will Bumpy’s dreams for rebuilding Harlem survive, or will his past catch up with him?

var authorcode=’KR’;