When it comes to playing powerful men, Vincent D'Onofrio knows his way around the block. The acclaimed actor has already made waves portraying Wilson Fisk, the notorious Kingpin, on Marvel's Daredevil series and the enigmatic Wizard of Oz in NBC's Emerald City. Now, Vincent is stepping into the shoes of another formidable figure—this time rooted in reality. He's set to star alongside Forest Whitaker in Epix's gripping true crime series Godfather of Harlem, where the stakes are high, and the drama is as real as it gets.

From Boxing Rings to Crime Rings: Vincent "Chin" Gigante's Story

The show, which was given a direct-to-series order by Epix, casts Vincent as Vincent "Chin" Gigante, a former boxer with a reputation for being underestimated. But don't let appearances fool you—Gigante was anything but a pushover. Beneath his seemingly dim-witted exterior lay a sharp mind that was always several steps ahead. In fact, Gigante's infamous strategy of feigning insanity to dodge legal trouble became legendary, though it eventually caught up with him. The series will delve into Gigante's journey from a hitman in the Genovese crime family to ascending the ranks and becoming its boss, painting a vivid picture of his rise and the intricate web of crime he navigated.

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(The real Vincent Gigante; Photo Credit: Getty Images)

Clash of Titans: Gigante vs. Johnson

Vincent's character is bound to clash with Forest Whitaker's Bumpy Johnson, who seems to be the central figure of the series. According to Variety, Godfather of Harlem tells the true story of crime boss Bumpy Johnson, a man who, after serving a decade in prison, returns to a Harlem that's far from the vibrant neighborhood he once ruled. The streets are now controlled by the Italian mob, and Bumpy is determined to reclaim his power. In his quest, he forms an unlikely alliance with Malcolm X, a radical preacher whose political rise is caught in the crossfire of social upheaval and a brutal mob war threatening to tear the city apart. It's a story of ambition, betrayal, and resilience, set against the backdrop of 1960s New York.

A Journey Through Acting: Vincent D'Onofrio's Career

Vincent's career is a testament to his versatility and depth as an actor. He burst onto the scene with a unforgettable performance in the Vietnam War film Full Metal Jacket, released in 1987. Since then, he's graced both the big and small screens, starring in countless films and guest appearances on television shows. In 2001, he took on the role of a lifetime as the lead in Law & Order: Criminal Intent, where he spent a decade captivating audiences with his nuanced portrayals.

In a candid interview with IGN.com, Vincent revealed his approach to acting: "Characters that lack humility—whether they're heroes or villains—are tough to connect with. Every character, no matter the context, should embody humility. Without it, they become mere caricatures. During performances, I understand what triggers resonate with me, and how to use those triggers to affect others. Even when I'm expressionless, my presence can influence how you feel, creating a deeper connection with the audience." It's this philosophy that makes Vincent's performances so compelling and relatable.

Epix has yet to announce the premiere date for Season 1 of Godfather of Harlem, so keep an eye out for updates. This series promises to be a thrilling ride through the underbelly of organized crime, brought to life by two powerhouse actors at the top of their game.