A Hollywood legend's smash-hit crime drama from the mastermind behind Yellowstone has returned to Paramount+ for its latest series.

There's even more cause for excitement as critics are hailing the newest episodes as the programme's finest yet.

Sylvester Stallone leads Tulsa King, crafted by Taylor Sheridan and penned by Terence Winter, which made its comeback for the third series today (Sunday, 21st September).

The Rocky icon plays ex-New York mafia capo Dwight 'The General' Manfredi, who gets dispatched by his superior to establish operations in Tulsa, Oklahoma following over twenty years behind bars.

The second series, which wrapped up last November, left Dwight facing impossible circumstances once more as he found himself threatened and seized by armed assailants in the finale's closing moments, reports the Mirror.

His criminal operation now confronts fresh obstacles as he finds himself hunted not only by the FBI but also facing off against a formidable new adversary, the Dunmire clan.

Whether you're fully up to speed with The General's gripping criminal tale or haven't yet started watching, Tulsa King merits a prime position on your viewing schedule now the third series has arrived.

FandomWire described it as "bigger, bolder, and brasher - the best season yet" in their glowing assessment.

"Stallone brings his trademark mumbling magnetism, balancing mob menace with sly, unexpected comedy," they added.

"A crime series for the underdogs, it's as addictive as it is criminally entertaining."

Collider has given a glowing review of the upcoming season, stating: "Season 3 is shaping up to be Tulsa King's most exciting installment yet.

"It adds strong antagonists to the world who set dangerous stakes early, backed by excellent new additions to the cast."

They continued: "While it's impossible to say how well everything will ultimately come together, Tulsa King Season 3 is a thoroughly tense ride nonetheless - and the best that Sheridan's series has been so far."

This is certainly high praise, especially considering fans already hail Tulsa King as a "masterpiece" in the crime genre.

One ardent fan penned in their five-star Google review: "Amazing. Just ridiculously good.

"Tulsa King is a gripping and captivating series that kept me hooked from the very first episode to the last.

"The storyline is rich with intrigue, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists. The acting is superb, and the production quality is top-notch.

"I can't recommend this series enough. It's a five-star masterpiece that's definitely worth watching!"

Will you be joining the masses for the season premiere this Sunday?

Tulsa King season 3 continues Sundays on Paramount+.