Best Episodes
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!
Before accepting a prestigious award, Bumpy Johnson contemplates the many contradictions in his life, and struggles to do what's best for his family; Chin Gigante learns a difficult truth about his daughter, Stella.
The episode was rated 7.73 from 471 votes.
After three months in hiding from Chin Gigante and the Italians, Bumpy Johnson takes action to lift the sanctions off his head. By forging new alliances with European suppliers, Bumpy aims to reunite with his family safely back in Harlem.
The episode was rated 7.83 from 610 votes.
An incident at the Geechee Club threatens to break up Bumpy and Chin's partnership. Adam Clayton Powell looks to end the filibuster on the Civil Rights Bill, even if it means playing dirty.
The episode was rated 7.86 from 511 votes.
The Godfather of Harlem follows the story of Bumpy Johnson's rise to power in the Harlem underworld in the 1960s. In the episode "The Ballot or the Bullet," three Freedom Riders are murdered in Mississippi, causing Johnson to seek justice and a hedge against Federal investigation. Meanwhile, Chin Gigante evades imprisonment with a "not guilty by reason of insanity" defense, and Malcolm X delivers an impassioned call to action.
Production of this show is solid, although the timeline may not be entirely accurate. Chin Gigante's insanity plea did not occur until the late 1970s or early 80s, making this episode slightly inaccurate. Nevertheless, this is an enjoyable show, and with the suspenseful story arc, viewers are disappointed that they have to wait until August for the remainder of the episodes.
The episode was rated 7.87 from 506 votes.
In the episode "Sting Like a Bee" of the show Godfather of Harlem, Bumpy Johnson seeks to expand his business by enlisting a new French supplier to distribute to the other major cities of America. Meanwhile, Malcolm X uses his influence over Cassius Clay to gain favor with the Nation of Islam, before Clay is set to fight his highly anticipated match against Sonny Liston. This episode of Godfather of Harlem fully captivated its viewers with its intriguing plot and heart-stopping action. This episode proves yet again that the show is continuously getting better and better, leaving viewers wanting more.
The episode was rated 7.88 from 557 votes.
The episode The Fruit Stand Riot from Godfather of Harlem tells the story of a police brutality incident in Harlem and the community's reaction. After several innocent black teenagers and bystanders were savagely beaten and arrested by police, Harlem's leaders, Adam Clayton Powell and Mayme Johnson, use peaceful protests to support the victims. However, Bumpy Johnson and Malcolm X take a different approach, believing that street justice is the only way to ensure that justice is served. The episode culminates in a powerful scene where Bumpy Johnson shows his power and influence in the community to free those who were wrongfully arrested. It's a stirring reminder that even in the face of injustice, there is the potential to create meaningful change.
The episode was rated 7.92 from 556 votes.
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.
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.
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.
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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