Introduction
Franklin Saint, the central character in FX’s crime drama Snowfall, is one of the most compelling figures in modern television. Created by John Singleton, Dave Andron, and Eric Amadio, Snowfall explores the rise of the crack cocaine epidemic in 1980s Los Angeles, with Franklin at the center of the storm. His journey from an ambitious young man to a ruthless drug kingpin highlights the devastating consequences of power, greed, and systemic oppression. This article delves deep into Franklin Saint’s transformation, motivations, and ultimate downfall.
Early Life and Ambitions
Franklin Saint, portrayed masterfully by Damson Idris, is introduced as an intelligent and ambitious teenager growing up in South Central Los Angeles. Raised by his hardworking mother, Cissy Saint, Franklin is determined to escape the cycle of poverty and make something of himself. Unlike many of his peers who succumb to gang violence and crime, Franklin initially chooses a different path—he attends a prestigious school and briefly experiences a life outside his neighborhood.
However, the reality of economic hardships and racial barriers makes it difficult for Franklin to succeed through traditional means. He realizes that the American Dream is not equally accessible to everyone, especially young Black men in his community. With limited opportunities, Franklin turns to the drug trade, seeing it as a way to achieve financial success and provide for his family.
Entry into the Drug Trade
Franklin’s journey into the drug world begins when he reconnects with his uncle, Jerome Saint, and his uncle’s girlfriend, Louie. Initially, Franklin sells marijuana, but his ambition pushes him to seek more lucrative opportunities. He eventually crosses paths with Avi Drexler, a powerful Israeli drug dealer, and Teddy McDonald, a CIA operative using drug money to fund covert operations in Central America.
Teddy provides Franklin with a steady supply of cocaine, and with this connection, Franklin becomes one of the first people to introduce crack cocaine to the streets of Los Angeles. His business quickly grows, and he builds a vast drug empire. However, this success comes with a heavy cost—violence, betrayal, and moral corruption begin to consume Franklin and those around him.
The Transformation of Franklin Saint
As Franklin’s power increases, so does his ruthlessness. He starts as a young man with good intentions—wanting to support his family and uplift his community. However, the drug trade changes him. He becomes more strategic, cold-blooded, and willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his empire.
One of the pivotal moments in Franklin’s transformation occurs when he is shot by Melody Wright, a childhood friend and the daughter of a police officer Franklin had ordered killed. The near-death experience forces Franklin to temporarily reevaluate his choices, but he ultimately returns to the game, more determined and calculated than ever.
His relationship with his family also deteriorates. His mother, Cissy, initially supports his ambition but later realizes the destruction he is causing. His uncle Jerome, once reluctant to join the drug trade, becomes entangled in Franklin’s operations, leading to devastating consequences.
The Rise of the Crack Epidemic
Franklin’s rise coincides with the devastating spread of crack cocaine throughout Los Angeles. As his business flourishes, the community around him suffers. Families are torn apart, crime rates soar, and addiction spreads like wildfire. The government’s war on drugs disproportionately targets Black communities, leading to mass incarcerations and further systemic oppression.
Despite being aware of the destruction caused by his actions, Franklin rationalizes his decisions by believing that if he didn’t sell the drugs, someone else would. However, deep down, he knows he has become part of the problem.
Betrayal and Downfall
As Franklin’s empire grows, so do his enemies. The authorities, rival drug dealers, and even his closest allies turn against him. Teddy McDonald, the CIA agent who once supplied him with drugs, becomes a significant threat. The relationship between the two deteriorates, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse.
Family betrayal also plays a crucial role in Franklin’s downfall. Louie and Jerome seek independence, causing friction within the organization. The power struggles escalate, leading to violence and tragic losses.
In the final season of Snowfall, Franklin’s empire crumbles. The wealth and power he once held slip through his fingers, and he is left with nothing. His story serves as a tragic reflection of real-life events—how systemic inequality, government interference, and personal ambition can lead to destruction.
Franklin Saint’s Legacy
Franklin Saint’s character is a cautionary tale about the allure of power and the cost of ambition. His journey mirrors the real impact of the crack epidemic and the consequences faced by many young Black men during that era. Despite his intelligence and strategic mind, Franklin ultimately becomes a victim of the very system he tried to manipulate.
Snowfall does not glorify Franklin’s actions but rather paints a realistic and heartbreaking picture of a young man who had the potential to be great but was consumed by the world he chose to navigate. His story is a reminder that in the drug game, no one truly wins.
Conclusion
Franklin Saint’s rise and fall in Snowfall is one of the most compelling character arcs in television history. His transformation from a bright teenager to a ruthless drug kingpin, and eventually to a man stripped of everything, is a gripping and tragic narrative. Snowfall not only tells the story of Franklin but also highlights the broader social and political issues that led to the crack epidemic. Franklin’s legacy serves as a reminder of the devastating effects of drugs, crime, and systemic injustice, making Snowfall a must-watch for those interested in powerful storytelling.
