Black Lightning Casts Rapper Krondon as Villain Tobias Whale

The CW has announced a big addition to the cast of their series Black Lightning with rapper Krondon, aka Marvin Jones III, as the series’ villain, Tobias Whale.

“I was excited about Krondon when I saw his audition. He’s going to make a great Tobias,” executive producer Salim Akil said in a statement. “His authentic street sensibility along with an insightful intelligence is perfect for the Tobias character arc. Not to mention his regal physical bearing will be additive to making our show exciting and different.”

Described as an African-American man with albinism, Tobias Whale is the leader of Freeland’s most feared gang—The 100. But in the days before Black Lightning, Tobias was a politician, rising up the ranks of local government through corrupt and illegal means. That was until he was brought down by Alvin Pierce, Jefferson’s father. Enraged, Tobias murdered Alvin and was driven underground into exile. It’s here he found a place to rebuild, growing into the violent and methodical leader of The 100 as we find him today. But Black Lightning’s recent return has ignited Tobias’ desire to emerge from the shadows and face his biggest adversary, Jefferson Pierce, aka Black Lightning. Created by Tony Isabella and Trevor von Eeden, Tobias Whale made his first appearance back in Black Lightning #1 in 1977.

Cress Williams stars as Jefferson Pierce, aka Black Lightning, in the series, alongside Nafessa Williams and China Anne McClain as his daughters, Anissa and Jennifer. Additional co-stars include Christine Adams, Damon Gupton, and James Remar.

Based on the characters from DC, Black Lightning is from Berlanti Productions and Akil Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, with executive producers Greg Berlanti, Salim Akil & Mara Brock Akil, and Sarah Schechter. The Black Lightning character was created by Tony Isabella with Trevor Von Eeden.

(Photo Credit: Getty Images)