Elvis Nolasco and Erik LaRay Harvey of Godfather of Harlem discuss expectations for Season 5 and character development over the series.
Hangin' with the Don: A Heart-Pounding Journey through Godfather of Harlem's Fourth Season
The epic finale of Godfather of Harlem season 4 is almost here, and it's been nothing short of thrilling! Our hero, Bumpy Johnson (Forest Whitaker), has been battling old adversaries and newly-emerged competitors around every corner, but there's solace in his loving family and unshakeable loyalty from his right-hand men, Nat Pettigrew (Elvis Nolasco) and Del Chance (Eric LaRay Harvey).
Recently, we had a fantastic chat with Nolasco and Harvey, getting their take on the latest episodes of this gutsy series. Not only did they discuss their characters' transformation over four seasons and share their thoughts on fresh faces Rome Flynn as Frank Lucas and Michael Benjamin Washington as James Baldwin, but they also opened up about their aspirations for a potential season 5 (as of publication, there's been no word on a renewal).
Let's dive into some of their enlightening insights.
Finding that unique spark: quintessential inspiration behind the characters
Harvey: Del Chance is built upon the foundation of one of the genuine gang members from back in the day. I'm not certain if he's still breathing these days—I believe he is, but I'm not positive. But yes, he is based on a real life character. To bring him to life, we've had to take some creative liberties to create a more intriguing narrative, but the essence remains true to his roots.
Nolasco: Just like Del Chance, my character, Nat Pettigrew, was indeed a real guy who belonged to Bumpy's crew. The creative team, led by Chris Brancato, has taken some creative license and made some changes here and there. My inspiration doesn't stem from any specific research; rather it comes from the DNA of being a New Yorker and growing up in Harlem, witnessing first-hand the incredible energy and shifts in that neighborhood throughout the years, from the 60's up to now.
A dramatic transformation: the biggest changes in characters from season 1 to season 4
Nolasco: Looking back, the characters have developed significantly since season 1, and audiences have had a chance to glimpse more of their backstory across the seasons. By season 4, there's a tremendous explosion of character arcs, including Nat Pettigrew.
Harvey: The transformation of our characters is dependent on the time period. As a group, we adapt with the winds of change.
New blood on the streets: working alongside Frank Lucas and James Baldwin
Nolasco: Bringing in Frank Lucas (Rome Flynn) into the mix for season 4 feels like adding a sprinkle of spice to a sizzling stew. It raises the intensity of the series for everyone involved.
Harvey: This season, we're introducing a newcomer, Frank Lucas, who, in a way, taps a crack in our armor. Rome Flynn has started strong, and I'm excited to see how he elevates the storyline. We also have James Baldwin (Michael Benjamin Washington) entering the scene, and it's vital for the narrative because he was one of the sharpest intellects and voices of his time. His perspective will help us navigate the emotional turmoil we face in the tension-filled environment.
Looking forward: wishes for season 5 if renewed
Nolasco: This series does an exceptional job blending the underworld with the Civil Rights Movement. I hope that as we move into the '70s, we'll keep seeing the weaving of these themes, exploring whether they share similarities or differ in ways we may not have considered.
Harvey: Before we dream about season 5, we need assurance that there will be one. Once we have that confidence, I'll leave the creative decisions up to the team to shape the future of our story.
So there you have it, folks! Godfather of Harlem continues to stir up excitement and emotion week after week, as we follow Bumpy Johnson and his crew through their trials and tribulations. Tune in to MGM Plus on Sundays to catch each thrilling episode!
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- Elvis Nolasco and Eric LaRay Harvey, discussing their characters' transformation over four seasons, shared their thoughts on fresh faces Rome Flynn as Frank Lucas and Michael Benjamin Washington as James Baldwin in Godfather of Harlem.
- Both Del Chance (Eric LaRay Harvey) and Nat Pettigrew (Elvis Nolasco) were based on real individuals from Bumpy Johnson's crew, with creative liberties taken to create more intriguing narratives and showcase their roots.
- As the characters have developed significantly since season 1, there's a tremendous explosion of character arcs in season 4, including Nat Pettigrew's.
- Bringing in Frank Lucas (Rome Flynn) and James Baldwin (Michael Benjamin Washington) into the story in season 4 adds new depth and raises the intensity of the series for everyone involved.
- Elvis Nolasco expressed hope that, as the series moves into the '70s, it will continue to weave themes of the underworld and the Civil Rights Movement, exploring potential similarities and differences between them in future seasons (if renewed).
