Derrick Gibson had a short tenure on Chicago Fire. The character was posed as the replacement for Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende) in season 11, but personal struggles kept getting in the way of Gibson’s ability to connect with the rest of the firehouse. There was some bonding, with Carver (Jake Lockett), in particular, but it was too little too late.
The character of Gibson was booted from the show, and let go from 51, after less than five episodes. It was too bad, given how talented the actor who plays him is. Rome Flynn seemed like a fun addition to the cast, and his performance, albeit brief, was memorable. It’s a shame he didn’t get a chance to do more with Gibson, but he will now get a chance to flex his acting muscles elsewhere.
Rome Flynn will join the Godfather of Harlem cast
Rome Flynn has been cast on the MGM+ series Godfather of Harlem. The acclaimed series chronicles the life and crimes of real life gangster Bumpy Johnson, played by Oscar winner Forest Whitaker. The series was recently renewed for a fourth season, and Flynn has been cast in the crucial role of Frank Lucas.
Frank Lucas was one of the most notorious drug kingpins of the 1970s, and his life was previously dramatized in the 2007 drama American Gangster. In that film, Lucas was played by another Oscar winner, Denzel Washington, so Flynn is in good company.
Flynn will play real life gangster Frank Lucas
The actor issued a statement upon getting the part, and made it clear that he’s thrilled to be part of the show’s legacy. “I’m filled with gratitude,” he wrote. “Thrilled to be a part of the Godfather of Harlem universe and breathe new life into the legend of Frank Lucas.” Flynn also expressed enthusiasm to be working with an actor of Whitaker’s caliber:
“Working opposite [Whitaker], being led by the brilliant creator Chris Brancato, is truly a gift. An actor’s dream.”
The aforementioned Brancato also issued a statement praising Flynn’s screen presence. “When I saw Rome’s audition, I immediately knew we’d found our man,” he wrote. “Equal parts charming and ruthless, savvy and suave. Rome is a wonderful actor.”
Sounds like a perfect vehicle for Flynn’s talents!
