In Tulsa King’s Season 2, Episode 8, titled “Under New Management,” shifts in leadership, loyalty, and life-altering choices take center stage.
The episode starts with a major shift in power among the families, businesses, and even unexpected characters, taking the show in bold new directions and causing devastating chain reactions.
This episode highlights the raw consequences of bad decisions in a tense, high-stakes environment. As familiar characters face unexpected turns, every scene piles on the tension, foreshadowing much darker days ahead.
Chaos in the Invernizzi Family and Beyond
The episode is packed with scenes showing the fallout from the previous gang conflicts, centering around a brutal shootout that altered the trajectory of everyone involved.
The main groups affected include the Invernizzi family, Thresher’s crew, and a few outlying figures in the Tulsa underworld. A lot of characters are facing losses that bring out extreme actions, creating an atmosphere of panic and volatility.
One of the major plot points involves Bill Bevilaqua’s capo, who was shot by Tyson in the prior episode but survived. While the injury wasn’t fatal, the action stirs tension with Kansas City.
It also leads to more significant repercussions, as Dwight and the Invernizzi family find themselves caught in a collision of competing motivations and betrayals.
Meanwhile, Jackie, once a minor figure, seizes the opportunity to push his agenda and emerge as a key player in the ongoing gang wars.
In the heart of this storm, somewhat surprisingly, stands Armand, whose journey takes on a central focus.
Armand’s Descent into Desperation
Armand’s story is especially poignant in “Under New Management.” Previously a side character with little depth, Armand is now at the forefront, representing how desperation can drive even well-meaning people to take extreme steps.
Armand started as a comic relief figure with a weakness for drink, but Season 2 gives him a complex and troubled arc, showing how misplaced loyalty and poor decisions can lead to severe consequences. His initial interactions with Thresher showed how easily he can be manipulated.
Thresher gains insight into Dwight’s movements through Armand, who initially shares information unknowingly and later under pressure. These actions set off a chain of events that spiral out of Armand’s control, leaving him isolated and vulnerable.
By this episode, Armand is pushed to the edge. He finds himself without allies, as Dwight no longer trusts him, Thresher discards him, and even his own family grows distant.
Still from Tulsa King (Credit: Paramount+)
His desperation leads him to consider the FBI’s witness protection program, knowing it would cut him off from his family, who are planning to move to Colorado without him. Armand’s drinking spirals out of control as he lashes out, making a series of impulsive decisions that only worsen his situation.
The climax of his arc in this episode is an ill-fated attempt to rob Dwight’s stash, leaving a tragic final voicemail for his family and taking Goodie hostage.
The Sad Complexity of Armand’s Character
Armand’s story is compelling because he’s not inherently malicious. His motivations come from a place of fear and survival rather than malice. This vulnerability makes his actions all the more heartbreaking as we witness him unravel.
His choices don’t reflect a true criminal mindset, yet his circumstances drag him into a life that demands ruthless behavior. His moral struggles and emotional outbursts show the viewer how even minor players in this world are caught in a system that punishes any missteps.
By the episode’s end, Armand becomes a tragic figure, setting him up as a cautionary tale and perhaps foreshadowing a fateful encounter with Dwight.
Vince Challenges Chickie for Control
Meanwhile, Tulsa King’s overarching story heats up with Vince finally challenging Chickie’s leadership in the Invernizzi family. This pivotal scene demonstrates a major shift in power dynamics. Vince bluntly informs Chickie that he’s been replaced as head of the family.
Chickie’s reaction is predictable, and his grudge against Dwight resurfaces. Chickie’s intense hatred for Dwight began when he was exiled to Tulsa, where his growing influence posed a challenge to the New York families. This resentment turns into a dangerous obsession, especially now that he’s no longer in power.
Despite his diminished authority, Chickie is not the type to give up easily. His scheming mind immediately begins to consider how he can regain influence, and it’s clear that Dwight’s family might become a target.
Chickie’s character contrasts with Armand’s; he is consistently selfish, spiteful, and willing to harm anyone in his way. Vince’s decision to strip Chickie of his power, while strategic, may backfire since leaving Chickie alive allows him to plot further chaos.
Vince’s takeover represents more than just a power move—it sets off a new cycle of revenge that could destabilize the entire crime network.
This development lays the groundwork for what could be an explosive showdown in future episodes, especially as Chickie contemplates targeting Dwight’s loved ones to force his hand.
Jackie’s Surprising Move and the Escalation of Gang Tensions
Another interesting twist in Episode 8 is Jackie’s calculated rise. He has managed to operate under the radar, and while Thresher’s arrogance made him dismiss Jackie as a threat, Jackie’s patience pays off in this episode.
Thresher’s assumption that Jackie’s financial inferiority meant submission was a grave error. Jackie uses Thresher’s oversight to his advantage, gradually positioning himself as a formidable player.
With access to resources and a loyal following, Jackie’s ambitions are now evident. His takeover of the weed operation is just the beginning; he’s eyeing Kansas City next, a target that would cement his control.
Thresher’s warning to Bill about Jackie is poignant, painting Jackie as more than just another ambitious gangster—he’s reckless, dangerous, and unafraid of confrontation.
Thresher admits that Jackie was behind a car bomb aimed at Tyson’s father, Mark, sparking an unnecessary conflict that now threatens all involved parties. Bill’s frustration is palpable, as he realizes he’s been drawn into a needless war with Kansas City and that the conflict has cost lives.
This storyline is a commentary on how ego and underestimation of others can lead to destructive outcomes. Jackie’s expansionist approach is more than a power grab; it disrupts the carefully constructed balance among the gangs and sets a brutal tone for the future.
With the car bomb incident, Jackie has crossed a line that could unleash retribution from multiple fronts. His brazenness adds fuel to an already volatile situation, ensuring that his role in future episodes will be impactful.
The First Strike in an All-Out Gang War
The final act of the episode signals a new phase in the gang conflict. Dwight, aware of the growing threats, has taken measures to protect his family by sending Tina and the kids away and shutting down his businesses.
His cautious approach reflects the calculated risk management typical of his character, but even Dwight can’t cover all his bases.
The turning point comes when Bill decides to act on the simmering tensions. Despite the tentative truce between Kansas City and Dwight after the Atlanta sit-down, the recent events undo this fragile peace. Tyson’s attack on Bill’s capo had been more of a warning, but it wasn’t a formal declaration of war.
That changes when Bill retaliates, marking the beginning of open hostilities between the two sides. The attack on Even Higher Plane, Dwight’s dispensary, leaves Jimmy the Creek dead, setting a dark tone for the bloodshed to come.
Still from Tulsa King (Credit: Paramount+)
Jimmy’s death might seem low-stakes, but it foreshadows a larger battle. As Bill’s men begin targeting Dwight’s crew, the episode makes it clear that Dwight’s peaceful intentions won’t prevent further losses.
The federal agents monitoring Bill reveal that they had overheard a hit being planned, highlighting the inevitable collision between Dwight’s crew and Kansas City. This federal intervention adds a new layer to the conflict, as law enforcement watches and waits for the gangs to weaken each other.
Dwight’s Dilemma and the Fallout to Come
The closing scenes of Episode 8 show Dwight’s vulnerability and the sacrifices he must make to protect his people. He is a hardened character, yet his concern for his family drives him to preemptive action, such as sending them away.
His survival instincts and connections keep him one step ahead, but even Dwight’s best efforts can’t fully prevent the encroaching danger. The FBI’s wiretap alert gives him some advantage, but it also indicates that he’s now firmly under federal scrutiny.
As he braces for the unfolding conflict, Dwight finds himself at a crossroads. His loyalty to his crew is unwavering, but the stakes are growing higher with each episode. The death of Jimmy signals the cost of this war, which is now unavoidable.
With Kansas City escalating tensions and the Invernizzi family in disarray, Dwight’s journey seems destined for greater turmoil. His decisions will likely define the future of Tulsa King, especially as he balances protecting his people against facing his enemies head-on.
Still from Tulsa King (Credit: Paramount+)
Episode 8 of Tulsa King Season 2 is a masterclass in building suspense, setting the stage for dramatic confrontations.
It shows the themes of power, betrayal, and survival in a ruthless criminal underworld. Each character, from Armand to Dwight, faces challenges that test their resolve and loyalty, with disastrous consequences.
The episode’s ending leaves viewers on edge, with many questions unanswered and the fate of several characters hanging in the balance.
With gang wars looming, future episodes promise to deliver high-stakes drama and shifting alliances as the battle for control reaches new heights.
In From, characters come and go, leaving impressions of all sorts, but Tillie stands out. This horror series might appear initially like a straightforward sci-fi tale, but the emotional depth and humanity behind its characters give it richness that keeps viewers hooked.
Even though Tillie only enters the series in Season 2, her presence quickly becomes memorable, especially in her bond with Fatima.
However, her tragic death in Season 3, Episode 7 is more than just a sad twist—it marks a key turning point in the series, casting a lasting shadow over the show’s already haunting atmosphere.
Let’s look at Tillie’s journey, her evolving relationship with Fatima, the unique perspective she brings, and the impact her death has on From’s storyline.
Tillie’s Memorable Entrance in Season 2
Tillie (played by Deborah Grover) arrives in From Season 2, making an unforgettable first impression. While most newcomers seek shelter from the rain, she dances in it, unaffected by the others’ uneasy reactions.
At first glance, she’s an eccentric older woman, easy to dismiss as quirky. She mentions traveling the country to visit racetracks and bet on horses, which explains her whimsical demeanor. In a town full of paranoia and fear, Tillie’s free-spirited nature almost seems out of place.
Her backstory, however, reveals more depth. Diagnosed with terminal cancer, she’s on a journey that few understand. She seems to live life on her own terms, no longer afraid of death or its inevitability. This brings a strange wisdom to her character, although initially, her relaxed nature makes her seem like a minor figure.
Tillie isn’t the kind of person who fights her circumstances; she accepts them, but in doing so, she opens a different way of viewing life, death, and everything in between.
Tillie and Fatima: An Unlikely Bond
It’s only in her interactions with Fatima (played by Pegah Ghafoori) that we begin to see Tillie’s depth. The connection between them starts quietly, almost under the radar, but eventually, it becomes a key relationship in Season 3. The oddities in their bond spark curiosity among viewers and other characters alike.
At the end of Season 2, Tillie displays an unusual sensitivity. She somehow knows that Fatima is pregnant before anyone else does, even though there’s no physical indication.
This moment adds an air of mystery around Tillie. Fatima, who is dealing with her own internal struggles, finds Tillie’s presence comforting.
Instead of reacting with fear or disgust when Fatima reveals her strange cravings, Tillie listens with empathy and shares her own experience with unusual cravings.
Her lack of judgment and her supportive attitude make her a reliable confidante for Fatima, whose pregnancy brings a mix of anxiety and supernatural tension. Tillie’s genuine kindness gives Fatima a safe space to share her fears.
Still from From Season 3 (Credit: MGM)
Some fans have speculated that Tillie’s knowledge of Fatima’s pregnancy hints at her connection to the supernatural forces surrounding From.
Her calm acceptance of Fatima’s cravings for rotten vegetables has even led to theories that Tillie might be subtly encouraging something dark or demonic within Fatima’s unborn child. The line between Tillie’s warmth and the show’s eerie atmosphere blurs, as her behavior straddles both.
Episode 7: Tillie’s Life Philosophy Comes to Light
In Season 3, Episode 7, viewers are given insight into Tillie’s life philosophy, helping us understand her warmth and calm in a place that defies all sense of safety.
During a heartfelt conversation with Ellis (Corteon Moore), she opens up about her terminal diagnosis and how it changed her view of life and death.
She describes death not as a final end but as a transition, or perhaps a stop on a larger journey. This acceptance of mortality frees her, allowing her to approach life without fear or hesitation.
Tillie’s philosophy provides a stark contrast to most residents of From. While others cling to life in fear, Tillie has made peace with her eventual death. She doesn’t view her illness as something tragic but as something that lets her live without reservation.
This perspective resonates in her words: “I am old and have cancer, and like a good love story.” Her line, both simple and profound, captures her essence. She’s a character who wants to help and connect without expecting anything in return.
This outlook also sheds light on why she’s so willing to support Fatima despite the strange nature of her cravings and fears. Tillie doesn’t judge or question; instead, she provides warmth and empathy.
Her philosophy also explains why she remains so calm when faced with the hallucinations plaguing Elgin (Nathan D. Simmons) and even acknowledges the unsettling kimono woman. Her ease in such moments makes her an oddly reassuring presence in a world filled with horrors.
Parallels Between Tillie and Fatima: Echoes of Season 1
When looking at Tillie’s arc, it’s impossible not to notice parallels with Fatima. Fatima’s carefree spirit in Season 1 shared similarities with Tillie’s outlook, bringing a sense of life and freedom to Fromville. Fatima’s philosophy then was to rise above fear, seeing nightmares from a higher perspective.
But as her pregnancy progresses and supernatural events intensify, Fatima starts to lose that light-hearted side. She becomes more vulnerable, her nerves fraying as she grapples with the unknown.
Tillie, however, takes on the role Fatima once held. She becomes the character who remains steady and joyful, offering positivity in a place where hope is rare. She reminds us of the carefree attitude of Colony House in Season 1.
Her view on life and death mirrors Fatima’s earlier optimism, giving Fatima a figure to lean on as she struggles. In a way, Tillie fills the role of a motherly figure, guiding and comforting without seeking control. Her lightness and empathy make her a beacon in a town overtaken by fear.
The Tragic Death of Tillie: Episode 7’s Heartbreaking Twist
Just as we begin to see the full depth of Tillie’s character, Episode 7 delivers a shocking blow—her unexpected death. In the episode’s final moments, a frantic Fatima stabs Tillie with a pair of shears, overcome by the horror and confusion that surround her pregnancy.
Fatima, in her distressed state, doesn’t seem fully aware of what she’s doing, but her actions are still tragic.
As Tillie dies in her arms, the viewer is left with a mix of sadness and disbelief. Her death isn’t merely the loss of a side character; it’s a devastating shift for both Fatima and the entire tone of the series.
Narratively, Tillie’s death fits the direction From takes as it goes deeper into horror and tension. Her murder, though seemingly accidental, adds an ominous layer to Fatima’s storyline. Tonally, however, her absence leaves an undeniable void.
Still from From Season 3 (Credit: MGM)
Tillie was one of the few characters who offered light-heartedness in a bleak, fear-filled environment. Her warmth and humor gave viewers a momentary relief from the grim atmosphere.
Without her, the series plunges further into darkness, taking away a rare source of comfort for both the characters and the audience.
Tillie’s Final Moments: A Testament to Her Character
Tillie’s final moments reveal her true nature and leave a lasting impression. Even as she lay dying, she urges Fatima to flee, showing compassion and concern. Her last words capture her spirit: she doesn’t resent Fatima for what happened, nor does she hold on to bitterness.
She remains selfless until the very end, knowing that Fatima acted out of terror rather than intent. It’s a testament to Tillie’s generous and forgiving nature, contrasting with the harsher responses of other townspeople.
Tillie’s grace in these final moments underscores her unique role in From. Unlike others who might seek revenge or judgment, she forgives and empathizes, recognizing the extraordinary pressures everyone faces. This attitude stands out, especially when compared to how the town reacted to Sarah’s (Avery Konrad) dark actions.
While others responded to Sarah with anger and suspicion, Tillie looks beyond fear and sees the humanity in those around her. Her kindness is her legacy, a lasting reminder of the empathy that can exist even in dire circumstances.
Tillie’s Death and Its Impact on From
Tillie’s death marks a significant turning point in From Season 3, highlighting the show’s dark and relentless direction.
Her absence means the loss of a source of light and stability for characters like Fatima, who now must face her struggles without Tillie’s comforting presence.
Her death signifies a shift in the town’s dynamics as well, as relationships grow more tense and paranoia escalates.
With Tillie gone, the remaining residents must cope with a growing sense of dread and isolation. There’s no one to fill her role as the optimistic, quirky figure who lightened the mood.
As accusations and distrust grow among the townsfolk, it becomes clear that Season 3 will only intensify in horror and emotional weight. The loss of Tillie removes a last buffer against the harsh reality of Fromville, pushing the town closer to the edge.
The Future of From Without Tillie
As From continues, Tillie’s absence will be felt deeply. Her unique perspective on life and death, her empathy, and her unexpected warmth provided a rare contrast to the show’s otherwise tense and fearful atmosphere. Her death not only affects Fatima but also leaves an emotional gap for the audience.
Few characters in horror series bring this mix of eccentricity and wisdom, making Tillie’s loss a poignant reminder of what the town could be, even amidst horror.
Viewers will likely see Fatima struggle to cope with the tragedy, burdened by the knowledge of what she did under the influence of fear. The weight of Tillie’s death will shape her arc, and it may also bring deeper questions about the supernatural forces at work.
Still from From Season 3 (Credit: MGM)
Tillie’s openness and compassion were special qualities that may now seem like a distant memory, replaced by darkness and distrust as the series moves forward.
Closing Thoughts: Tillie’s Legacy in From
Tillie’s time on From was short, but her impact was profound. She brought laughter, empathy, and understanding to a series defined by fear and dread.
Her friendship with Fatima and her acceptance of mortality gave viewers a refreshing take on life amidst horror. Though she’s gone, her legacy of kindness and her unique view on life will resonate with fans.
As From heads into darker territory, Tillie’s influence lingers as a reminder of the strength that comes from compassion and acceptance, even in the bleakest of times.
