In the realm of television, certain characters rise above the rest, capturing the essence of strength, leadership, and charisma. In "The Ones Who Live," Donald Okafor, portrayed by the talented Craig Tate, stands as a formidable and respected leader. Let's delve into the decisive presence of this captivating character.
At the core of Okafor's character is an unshakeable belief system that sets him apart in the world of the show. Yes, we’ve experienced people driven by what they believe to be the greater good, but Okafor takes the sacrifice he feels necessary to new torturous heights. Whether facing challenges head-on or leading a charge, Okafor radiates confidence and determination, drawing viewers into his unwavering resolve.
Okafor's onscreen presence is a delicate balance of power and nuance. Craig Tate delivers a magnificent performance holding his own in pivotal scenes. Amidst a cast of intricate personalities portrayed by the likes of Terry O’Quinn and Lesley-Ann Brandt, he manages to feasibly stand out. Sparing verbally and physically with the powerhouse Andrew Lincoln, Tate rebounds seamlessly making Donald’s story resonate.
Craig Tate isn’t a newbie in Hollywood and has been seen in numerous projects over the years. The New Orleans native started his career off with a bang with roles in Award winning films, The Butler and 12 Years a Slave. Not a stranger to the small screen either with his first acting gig in another award-winning series Treme. Tate continued with parts in several television shows like Shameless and Aquarius until landing a key position as Lenny in Snowfall. More recently he was seen in Greyhound with Tom Hanks and King Richard with Will Smith. Craig Tate has certainly become an actor we should be on the lookout for and it’s likely what the casting department for The Ones Who Live recognized.
We first glimpse Okafor’s watchful eyes on Rick Grimes after a fourth failed attempt at escape. His leadership style speaks volumes when even without a hand he knows Consignee Grimes is a valuable asset. We aren’t quite sure of his reasoning because he doesn’t know Rick Grimes the way that we do. Yet he notices the qualities he deems necessary for something grander. His depth and ingenuity displayed when he informs Rick that he’s lobbied personally on his behalf to Major General Beale.
A risky endeavor when advocating for a clear A personality that shouldn’t have been granted access to the Civic Republic in the first place. Repeated attempts to convert Rick into a CRM officer reveal a seriousness yet compassion for our troubled hero. A task not easily provided, only further displaying the actor's skill in rapidly portraying a captivating and influential figure.
What makes Donald Okafor truly intriguing is his ability to be likable in unexpected situations. Despite being a feared leader, there's an undeniable charm and wit that captivates the audience. This likability adds layers, making him someone viewers can't help wanting to support and empathize with. One such moment is his year later covert recruitment of Rick Grimes and Pearl Throne in a bombed-out stadium that will become a focal point later.
Retrieval of dog tags from a delt on their path gives more meaning to those hung from the ceiling in his greenhouse. These are people whose lives and deaths have subtly affected him in untold ways. Okafor’s millet growth setting a precedent to the plans he reveals in the burnout confines. A risky plan to infiltrate the CRM’s Force Command, harkens back to the desire to grow a grain in a place not its normal environ. Planting agents to disrupt the monstrous movements of a lesser-known faction of the military. Ten percent carrying out orders that would disturb others to know had been done in the name of their sole survival.
These plans set Okafor uniquely apart from the villain status we’ve seen in recent years of the TWDU. But if not for Tate's masterful performance we wouldn’t buy into the possibly of his redemption. Clear focus grants him the skill to flesh out momentum in getting the result he foresees. Never one dimensional, he is intelligent as he is ruthless. When Thorne ceases Rick’s fifth escape attempt with a confession that Okafor knows details about him, his preparation unfolds.
Rick’s confrontation prompts him to reveal that he’s known seen escape attempt number three about his wife, Michonne and daughter. That if Rick managed to get away, he would be tasked with his, his family’s and anyone in proximities deaths. A task we know he would undoubtedly carry out once assigned.
In a heart wrenching monologue Rick refuses his offers of leadership, reminding what his whole existence has always revolved around- his family. Once again, he has no yearning to lead even when he’s a natural and persuasive one. Threats regarding murdering Michonne and Judith enrage, bolstering Okafor’s position as a villain. His return covered in blood after departing with bombs adds to his sentiment. But just as the disdain for him sinks in, his swift upper hand in a skirmish lands him hovering over Rick.
The glassy eyed glare hints at the despair he’d endured through his pursuit to see his vision to completion. Never above willingness to do the unthinkable, unwavering in his belief that the end does justify the means, even if it may come at great personal sacrifice. Disclosures of napalm bombings in Atlanta and Los Angeles bring forth compassion for his despicable acts. But his final confession wallops when he mentions a marine named Estelle.
We know immediately the woman must’ve been significant then her full relation is quickly told. A wife that disagreed with the direction the military had moved in, placing her at Lincoln Financial Field. An anguishing decision to bomb that arena instead of the city of Philadelphia is what her husband decides. Rick recognizes the agony he’s in and offers an apology demonstrating Okafor’s correct choice in picking him. With a clear motive for his current selections, Donald has very explicit reasons that make him a captivating character.
There is no malice behind any of Okafor’s actions, even with the vilest measures he’s committed. He’s a man who does what he believes are the right things to do, no matter the personal cost. He seems to work in extremes, still willing to conduct heinous acts until he can garner enough backing to usurp current leadership. It’s a strength in personality that most will admire, he’s loyal to his convictions to a fault. He can’t renege on tasks doled out to him without giving up his ability to work his angle. He seems desirous of a leader that will make the tough choices but will do so with compassion not allowing themselves to be corrupted by sovereignty, something he undoubtedly sees in Rick Grimes.
Challenging as he is riveting, militant as he is nuanced, and complex as he is believable. Donald’s backstory returns us to the bombed-out stadium giving more depth to the reasoning he’d picked that location to convert soldiers. His guilt is heavy in his heart and mind. Using the place, he’d killed his wife along with four thousand souls as a reminder of how the CRM had gotten to the levels it had. His decision that faithful night granted Beale the opportunity to lead with an iron fight knowing he’d carry out orders without question.
Undeniably, the soldier delt seen on the path to the stadium must’ve been someone who refused his offer. An intricate web of understanding emerges, even though we may not agree with Okafor’s unrelenting focus to achieve his goal. Yet we are provided with a peek into a larger coup that is probably happening right under our noses. This aspect creates an opportunity for The Ones Who Live to continue past its six-episode run, we can only hope.
With a new power dynamic, Donald has solidified potential as a hero. His admiration for Rick Grimes prompts us to wonder where their relationship can head. Will Rick’s hidden but continued desire for his wife eventually thaw his recruiter? Could Okafor ultimately see that reuniting Rick with his family could bolster his resolve to transform the CRM?
But just as quickly we are served a shocking setback. A weapon of some sort burrows its way into Okafor’s chest. His demise is imminent but expedited when the incendiary device explodes, landing blood and sinew all over the helicopter’s hull and Rick. Or hopes for those future interactions doused but his past influence just may prove him a central piece in the narrating story of Rick Grimes’s behaviors now that he’s inexplicably been found by Michonne in the most unlikely of manners.
A seamless fusion of skill and storytelling is brought to life by Craig Tate's exceptional portrayal of Okafor. Tate's dedication and authenticity ensure that Okafor becomes an unforgettable and integral part of "The Ones Who Live," leaving an enduring impact on the audience. Donald Okafor transcends the confines of the screen, embodying leadership, strength, and charisma. Craig Tate's masterful performance has crafted a character that resonates with authenticity and intensity. As the show unfolds, Okafor's resounding presence promises to leave a lasting impression on the hearts of viewers, solidifying his role as a central figure in this captivating narrative.