What Happened to Snowfall?
Snowfall was an acclaimed American crime drama television series created by John Singleton, Eric Amadio, and Dave Andron, which aired on FX from July 5, 2017, to April 19, 2023. The series chronicled the rise of crack cocaine in Los Angeles during the 1980s through the eyes of various characters, most notably young drug kingpin Franklin Saint. While the original series concluded after six seasons, its universe is set to expand with a spin-off series focusing on characters Wanda and Leon Simmons, slated for a 2026 premiere.
Quick Answer
The FX crime drama "Snowfall" concluded its critically acclaimed six-season run on April 19, 2023, with a poignant series finale that saw its central character, Franklin Saint, lose everything. However, the legacy of "Snowfall" continues, as FX officially greenlit an untitled spin-off series in November 2025, centered on fan-favorite characters Wanda and Leon Simmons. This new series, set in 1990s Los Angeles, is scheduled to premiere in 2026, exploring the aftermath of the crack epidemic and the rise of West Coast rap.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline14 events
Initial Development at Showtime
The concept for 'Snowfall' first began development at Showtime.
Picked Up by FX
FX picked up 'Snowfall' for a ten-episode first season.
Series Premiere
Snowfall, co-created by John Singleton, Eric Amadio, and Dave Andron, premiered on FX, introducing viewers to Franklin Saint and the early days of the crack epidemic in Los Angeles.
Passing of Co-Creator John Singleton
Acclaimed filmmaker and 'Snowfall' co-creator John Singleton passed away at the age of 51. The series continued, guided by the creative foundation he established.
Season 3 Premiere
The third season premiered, continuing the story of Franklin Saint and the escalating crack epidemic.
Season 4 Premiere
Season 4 premiered, depicting Franklin Saint rebuilding himself after being shot and the increasing violence of the war on drugs.
Season 5 Premiere and Viewership High
The fifth season debuted, becoming the most-watched season to date with its first two episodes averaging 4.3 million total viewers across platforms.
Renewal for Sixth and Final Season
FX announced that 'Snowfall' was renewed for its sixth and final season, with Damson Idris confirming the show's conclusion.
Final Season Premiere
The sixth and final season of 'Snowfall' premiered, setting the stage for the conclusion of Franklin Saint's story.
Series Finale Airs
The series finale, 'The Struggle,' aired, bringing Franklin Saint's tragic journey to an end as he loses everything and succumbs to addiction.
Spin-off Pilot Ordered
A spin-off series centered on Wanda and Leon Simmons received a pilot order from FX, indicating continued interest in the 'Snowfall' universe.
Spin-off Series Officially Greenlit
FX officially greenlit the untitled 'Snowfall' spin-off series starring Gail Bean and Isaiah John, set to premiere in 2026 and explore 1990s Los Angeles.
Damson Idris Receives Horizon Award
Damson Idris, known for his role as Franklin Saint, was honored with the Horizon Award at ABFF Honors 2026, recognizing his rising career in film and television.
Snowfall Spin-off Premiere (Expected)
The untitled 'Snowfall' spin-off series, focusing on Wanda and Leon Simmons in 1990s Los Angeles, is scheduled to premiere on FX and Hulu.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Snowfall, an American crime drama, premiered on FX on July 5, 2017, and became a significant cultural touchstone, exploring the devastating impact of the crack cocaine epidemic in 1980s South Central Los Angeles. Co-created by the late acclaimed filmmaker John Singleton, Eric Amadio, and Dave Andron, the series was praised for its intricate storytelling, strong performances, and authentic portrayal of a pivotal era in American history.
The narrative primarily followed Franklin Saint (Damson Idris), a bright and ambitious young man who transitions from a small-time marijuana dealer to a powerful crack cocaine kingpin. His story intertwined with those of CIA operative Teddy McDonald (Carter Hudson), Mexican luchador Gustavo 'El Oso' Zapata (Sergio Peris-Mencheta), and other figures caught in the burgeoning drug trade and the CIA's covert operations to fund the Nicaraguan Contras. The series was lauded for its ability to humanize the complex social and political forces at play, avoiding simple glorification of the drug trade.
Over its six seasons, 'Snowfall' garnered strong critical reception, with its fifth season debut in March 2022 averaging 4.3 million total viewers across platforms, marking its most-watched season to date. Critics often highlighted the show's intense storytelling, award-worthy acting, and awe-inducing cinematography. The series maintained its quality even after John Singleton's passing in April 2019, with the writing team continuing to honor his vision.
The series concluded with its sixth and final season, which premiered on February 22, 2023, and ended on April 19, 2023. The finale, titled 'The Struggle,' delivered a heartbreaking resolution for Franklin Saint, who, after losing his fortune and family, succumbed to addiction, a tragic consequence of the empire he built. His mother, Cissy Saint, also faced a new reality after killing Teddy McDonald in a desperate attempt to protect Franklin.
As of May 2026, the 'Snowfall' universe is set to expand. In November 2025, FX officially greenlit an untitled spin-off series, with Gail Bean and Isaiah John reprising their roles as Wanda and Leon Simmons. The new series will be set in early 1990s Los Angeles, exploring the aftermath of the crack epidemic and the rise of West Coast rap. This development ensures that the impactful storytelling and exploration of Black Los Angeles history initiated by 'Snowfall' will continue, with the spin-off scheduled to premiere in 2026 on FX and Hulu.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Snowfall made different choices?