The dangerous new villain in Tulsa King Season 3 brings more than just business trouble for Dwight Manfredi. Robert Patrick plays Jeremiah Dunmire, a powerful and god-fearing moonshine king, but his most complex and brutal relationship is with his own son, Cole, played by Beau Knapp. Behind the criminal threats and bourbon wars lies a family tragedy that explains why a father cannot forgive his only living son.
The Source of a Father’s Resentment
The tension between Jeremiah and Cole is not new. A flashback scene in the season reveals the origin of Jeremiah’s deep-seated resentment. It shows that Jeremiah had another son who died. Jeremiah was more attached to his deceased son, and when Cole survived while his brother did not, Jeremiah grew bitter.
Cole is constantly seen trying to win his father’s approval, but his efforts are met with cruel dismissal. Robert Patrick explained that from Jeremiah’s perspective, Cole is a constant disappointment. He stated that Jeremiah feels his guys are starting to fail him, and Cole’s inability to complete tasks, like killing Dwight at a restaurant, only adds to this resentment.
A Son Desperate for Approval
Beau Knapp, who plays Cole, shared that his character’s motivation goes beyond just seeking love. He described Cole as trying to replace his brother and do everything he can to make Jeremiah happy. Knapp created a backstory for Cole, believing that Jeremiah was once a good man and a good father. Cole is desperately trying to find that man again, but is consistently met with rejection.
This dynamic is painfully clear when Cole successfully pulls off a major task for his father. In a recent episode, Cole managed to steal back the valuable barrels of “Fifty” bourbon from Dwight’s crew. He brings the prized whiskey to his father, hoping for acknowledgement. Instead, Jeremiah thanks God for the return of the bourbon, offering his son no credit.
How Far Would a Father Go?
The depth of Jeremiah’s disregard for his son becomes shockingly clear in a dangerous standoff. When Dwight Manfredi and his crew track down the stolen bourbon, they hold Cole at gunpoint. Dwight threatens to end Cole’s life if Jeremiah does not hand over the barrels.
In this critical moment, Jeremiah hesitates to save his own son. Robert Patrick confirmed that Jeremiah might have been willing to sacrifice Cole for the bourbon. He explained that Jeremiah is a devout man, and in his warped perception, if the Lord told him to sacrifice his son, he would. This biblical-level severity shows the frightening extent of Jeremiah’s character.
Beau Knapp commented on this scene, noting that it reveals Jeremiah doesn’t care about Cole’s future or dreams. For Cole, recovering the bourbon was supposed to be his greatest accomplishment, but his father’s reaction is heartbreaking.
A Cycle of Family Trauma
Robert Patrick suggests that this abusive behavior is a learned family tradition. He believes the way Jeremiah treats Cole is likely the same way Jeremiah was raised by his own father and grandfather. This cycle of discipline and disapproval is now being passed down to Cole.
Patrick explained, “It’s a passed-on, generation to generation… And you have to kind of assume that Jeremiah went through these same punishments. So Cole’s in a tough spot. He’s trying to win that approval from his dad, and he’s not going to get it.”
To build this tense dynamic on screen, Patrick revealed he deliberately kept his distance from his co-star. He did not socialize with Beau Knapp on set, choosing to only interact with him as their characters. Patrick stated that he let Knapp know early on that he didn’t want to be his buddy, as he felt it was necessary to protect their professional dynamic. He acknowledged that Knapp is a great guy, but this approach helped create the authentic tension seen on screen.
No Forgiveness in Sight
Despite Cole’s persistent efforts, there seems to be little hope for reconciliation. When asked if Cole could ever earn his father’s respect, Robert Patrick was clear. He said he does not believe Cole is ever going to earn Jeremiah’s support and forgiveness. Jeremiah’s image of his first son is too perfect for anyone to live up to, especially Cole, who has disappointed him so many times.
However, Patrick did hint that Jeremiah will have a moment of clarity later in the season. He teased that there is a showdown coming where Jeremiah stops himself and realizes what he was about to do, showing a moment of vulnerability. Even with this glimpse of self-awareness, it appears the damage to this father-son relationship may be too deep to repair.
The dark family drama between the Dunmires adds a compelling layer to the criminal battles in Tulsa King Season 3, showing that the most dangerous threats can come from within a family.
Also Read: Tulsa King Season 3 Episode 6 Recap: A Failed Hit and a Shocking Return
