The hit series Snowfall on FX is coming to a conclusion. As I mourn its impending demise, I wait for each new episode with great anticipation. In discussing this with friends and family, I’ve encountered those more patient than I am, who are waiting for the show to conclude so they can binge-watch the whole season without delays. For those of you who might do the same, here is a recap of the first five seasons.

(Also, did everyone else know that Damson Idris is British??? Whoa)

Snowfall is a crime drama television series that premiered on FX in 2017. The show has completed five seasons and has received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and strong performances.

Season 1 of Snowfall introduces us to the story of Franklin Saint (Damson Idris), a young drug dealer in 1980s Los Angeles who gets caught up in the crack cocaine epidemic. The season explores the origins of the epidemic and the various players involved, including a CIA operative named Teddy McDonald (Carter Hudson) and a Mexican wrestler turned gangster named Gustavo "El Oso" Zapata (Sergio Peris-Mencheta). The season is a slow burn, but it sets up the series' tone and themes well, and features standout performances from Idris and Hudson.

Season 2 of Snowfall picks up where the first season left off and delves deeper into the characters' motivations and backstories. We learn more about Teddy's involvement in the drug trade and Franklin's relationship with his mother. The season also introduces a new character, Lucia Villanueva (Emily Rios), who becomes a key player in the drug trade. The season ramps up the tension and features some shocking moments that keep the audience engaged.

Season 3 of Snowfall sees the characters dealing with the consequences of their actions in the previous seasons. Franklin is forced to make some tough decisions as he tries to expand his business, and Teddy finds himself in over his head with his CIA operation. The season also introduces a new antagonist, a crooked cop named Andre Wright (Marcus Henderson), who threatens to bring down the entire operation. The season is intense and features some standout performances from the cast.

Season 4 of Snowfall is perhaps the strongest season yet. The season sees the characters dealing with the aftermath of a major event that shakes up the drug trade in Los Angeles. Franklin is forced to confront his past and make some tough decisions as he tries to stay on top. The season also delves deeper into the characters' relationships and motivations, and features some powerful moments that leave a lasting impact.

Season 5 of Snowfall, which premiered in February 2021, picks up where season 4 left off and continues to explore the characters' struggles as they try to maintain their power in the drug trade. The season features some standout performances from the cast, particularly from Damson Idris and Michael Hyatt, who plays Franklin's mother, Cissy. The season also tackles some timely themes, including police brutality and racism.