Godfather of Harlem

10 Best Episodes of Godfather of Harlem

The Godfather of Harlem, a show available on MGM+, is loosely based on infamous crime boss Bumpy Johnson who, in the early 1960s, returns from prison to find his beloved neighborhood in shambles. Spanning three seasons, this show has enthralled audiences with its story of Bumpy's quest to regain control of Harlem. Many viewers have expressed their opinions about which episodes of this show have been the best, and have ranked them accordingly. This article will delve into the best episodes that have been ranked by viewers, as well as provide a brief overview of the show itself.

Written by Sophie and last updated on mar 26, 2023.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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Godfather of Harlem - S1E9

#15 - Rent Strike Blues (Season 1 - Episode 9)

In the episode "Rent Strike Blues" of Godfather of Harlem, Adam Clayton Powell Jr. takes the lead in organizing a rent strike to protest the conditions of the slums in Harlem. Ernie Nunzi is on a mission to find the hooker who was involved in a previous situation with the mob boss Zambrano. The episode takes a turn for the personal when Bumpy and his wife Mayme experience tension in their marriage. It's clear that things are about to get real in the show.

The episode dives into the economic disparity that exists in Harlem and how it affects the people who live there. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. is determined to lead the Harlem inhabitants in a rent strike to challenge the unjust living conditions they are forced to endure. Ernie Nunzi sets out to try and put an end to the Zambrano situation, but the task is proving to be more difficult than anticipated. On a more emotional level, the episode shows the tension between Bumpy and Mayme as their marriage is put to the test. It's clear that the stakes of the episode have been raised and tensions are high.

The episode was rated 7.93 from 794 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S2E8

#14 - Ten Harlems (Season 2 - Episode 8)

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In the episode Ten Harlems, Bumpy Johnson is forced to confront a betrayal within his ranks and is determined to hunt down the enemies responsible. Meanwhile, the conflict between Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam is escalating quickly and has reached a breaking point, resulting in threats of violence. During the episode, Morgenthau is seen starting a huge ashtray fire at 47:30, adding to the already tense atmosphere. This episode is sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seat as they watch Bumpy Johnson try to uncover the person behind the betrayal and the escalating conflict between Malcolm X and the Nation of Islam.

The episode was rated 7.94 from 479 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S3E7

#13 - All Roads Lead to Malcolm (Season 3 - Episode 7)

In the Godfather of Harlem episode "All Roads Lead to Malcolm," Bumpy Johnson is tasked with finding a way to free Battle from his arrest and uncover the mole. As Bumpy digs deeper into the situation, he soon discovers that Malcolm X has more enemies than initially thought. During their investigation, the comedic timing of a slap scene cracks up the audience. This episode cleverly combines suspenseful moments with lighthearted comedy, making for an entertaining and well-rounded episode.

The episode was rated 7.95 from 258 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S1E6

#12 - Il Canto de Malavita (Season 1 - Episode 6)

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The episode "Il Canto de Malavita" starts with Elijah Muhammed touring Malcolm X's mosque. During his visit, he meets Elise and requests her to spy on Malcolm. Meanwhile, Chin discovers that Teddy is actually alive, leaving Ernie Nunzi to clean up his mess. Finally, Esther James sues Adam Clayton Powell Jr. for slander.

This episode was one of the best yet and it's easy to see why. With a captivating storyline and plenty of unexpected twists and turns, viewers were kept on the edge of their seats. From Malcolm X's mosque to Esther James' lawsuit, this episode had it all. It's no wonder viewers are loving the show more and more with every episode.

The episode was rated 7.95 from 899 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S1E5

#11 - It's All In the Game (Season 1 - Episode 5)

In the latest episode of Godfather of Harlem, Chin takes a huge risk to try and break Bumpy's bank by fixing a bet. The stakes are high and unfortunately it backfires, leaving Bumpy owing more money than he can pay. Meanwhile, police arrest Stella and Teddy for public displays of affection, illustrating the unequal power dynamics of the time period. Elise takes matters into her own hands and looks to the Nation of Islam to better her situation. This episode was filled with tension and drama, leaving viewers wanting more.

The episode was rated 7.96 from 922 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S2E9

#10 - Bonanno Split (Season 2 - Episode 9)

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The first episode of Godfather of Harlem to receive some criticism, "Bonanno Split" follows the story of Bumpy Johnson as he attempts to protect the Italian mob from Joseph Bonanno's plans to abolish the Commission. Meanwhile, Captain Omar takes his campaign against Malcolm X to a new level.

While this episode was largely enjoyed by viewers, some had reservations about the plotline involving characters dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. However, this did not detract from the overall quality of this show, as Godfather of Harlem continues to be a compelling and captivating series.

The episode was rated 7.97 from 470 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S3E9

#9 - We Are All Kings (Season 3 - Episode 9)

Chin Gigante is released from prison and seeks to excise Joe Colombo from the Commission.

The episode was rated 7.97 from 202 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S1E2

#8 - The Nitty Gritty (Season 1 - Episode 2)

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In the episode of Godfather of Harlem titled "The Nitty Gritty," Bumpy Johnson realizes that reliable heroin supply is a necessary part of his plan to reclaim Harlem. He embarks on a desperate search to find a source of heroin that is independent of the Italians. His plan quickly comes to the attention of Chin, a corrupt police officer who attempts to have Bumpy arrested and put back in jail.

The episode follows Bumpy's race against time to find a source of heroin while also avoiding Chin's machinations. Bumpy must navigate treacherous terrain in order to avoid being sent back to jail, while also ensuring that he can provide a reliable supply of heroin to the people of Harlem. This episode of Godfather of Harlem reveals the lengths to which Bumpy is willing to go to reclaim Harlem and make it a safe place for its residents.

The episode was rated 7.97 from 1069 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S1E3

#7 - Our Day Will Come (Season 1 - Episode 3)

In the episode "Our Day Will Come" of Godfather of Harlem, Bumpy unexpectedly finds himself at Elise's side when her shoplifting arrest and subsequent mistreatment results in a protest. With conflicting interests at hand, tensions rise as Bumpy attempts to make sure that justice is served. Big Dick Buster is brought in to calm the situation, but it is uncertain whether he will be able to do so.

The show Godfather of Harlem has a great production, however, some viewers may not be compelled to watch the show for more than one or two seasons. As the plot thickens and tensions increase, the show may be able to draw in more viewers and become a hit.

The episode was rated 7.98 from 1031 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S3E1

#6 - The Negro in White America (Season 3 - Episode 1)

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The episode "The Negro in White America" from the show Godfather of Harlem follows Bumpy Johnson as he attempts to repay a drug debt owed to the Italians after the Harlem riots. To do this, he turns to robbing from his own community, creating a moral dilemma. Meanwhile, Omar strives to be accepted back by Elise and Malcolm, two people he is close to. Finally, someone close to Stella orders a hit on her life, which adds a sense of suspense and danger. Fans of the show appreciate the complexity of the characters and storylines, with one commenting that they wish Bumpy was a game character. Additionally, viewers have downloaded the show, hoping that it keeps up with the previous two seasons. This top-notch show provides an interesting look into the struggles of African Americans during the civil rights era.

The episode was rated 8.03 from 332 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S1E1

#5 - By Whatever Means Necessary (Season 1 - Episode 1)

In the episode "By Whatever Means Necessary" of the show Godfather of Harlem, Bumpy Johnson returns from Alcatraz and is determined to reclaim control of Harlem. Unfortunately, the Italian mob is in charge of the streets and Bumpy will have to take on the Genovese crime family, led by Vincent β€œChin” Gigante. Although this episode received mixed reviews, the exceptional cast and the setting of the time period make it a worthwhile watch. On the other hand, some viewers found it difficult to understand the actors due to the muffled and quiet dialogue. Nevertheless, this episode is worth watching as it sets up the tone for the rest of the series.

The episode was rated 8.04 from 1270 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S1E10

#4 - Chickens Come Home to Roost (Season 1 - Episode 10)

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The latest episode of Godfather of Harlem, titled "Chickens Come Home to Roost", was highly anticipated by viewers. In the episode, Bumpy blackmails the mob in an effort to secure the safety of himself and his family. The episode also marks the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy. To commemorate this, Teddy performs at the Apollo Theater in Harlem.

Viewers of the episode were highly impressed. Many commented that the episode was very solid and that they are looking forward to season 2. The episode was filled with excitement, setting the stage for further events in season 2. The cast was also praised and the song at the end was a great addition to the episode. All in all, the episode was a great success and definitely set the bar high for season 2.

The episode was rated 8.04 from 816 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S1E7

#3 - Masters of War (Season 1 - Episode 7)

In the latest episode of Godfather of Harlem, Bumpy strikes back at the Italians by exploiting Chin's dark past. This leads to a dramatic conclusion as he reunites with his wife and children before his war explodes.

The episode culminates with a powerful ending that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, Mayme and Elise are able to put aside their differences to create a stronger bond. This episode is well-crafted and has been praised for its compelling storyline, making it clear why viewers are liking the show.

The episode was rated 8.05 from 848 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S2E4

#2 - The Geechee (Season 2 - Episode 4)

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The Godfather of Harlem episode "The Geechee" shows the successful partnership between Bumpy Johnson and Chin Gigante, as they make their mark in the Harlem underworld. However, their success also brings danger and unwanted attention. At the same time, Malcolm X is under attack both physically and character-wise, and must defend himself from his attackers.

The episode follows the two mob bosses as they set up their drug-dealing business, which provides a much-needed source of income for the people of Harlem. However, their success also brings danger to them and their organization. Meanwhile, Malcolm X continues to fight back against the attacks on his character, as well as the people who are trying to hurt him. He is determined to protect his reputation and the people of Harlem. This episode shows the courage and resilience of these three men and the lengths they are willing to go to in order to protect themselves and the people they care about.

The episode was rated 8.06 from 529 votes.

Godfather of Harlem - S2E10

#1 - The Hate That Hate Produced (Season 2 - Episode 10)

The Godfather of Harlem episode "The Hate That Hate Produced" follows Bumpy Johnson as he must protect himself from rivals in order to receive the largest dope shipment in New York history. The episode is set against the backdrop of a Harlem that is exploding into riot. To his surprise, Malcolm X reluctantly agrees to accept protection from an unusual source.

The episode has been praised for its powerful ending and the fact that they kept Brother Malcolm's character alive. Even more interesting is that this amazing show still has four more years before Bumpy dies. Fans are hoping for a season 3 as this episode left us wanting more.

The episode was rated 8.11 from 495 votes.

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