New ‘Black Lightning’ Trailer Gives First Look At Tobias Whale

The CW has released a brand new trailer for its upcoming superhero series “Black Lighting.”

The minute-long video gives fans their first look at villain Tobias Whale (Marvin “Krondon” Jones III), who is the leader of Freeland’s most feared gang, The 100.

“Do you believe in the resurrection?” Tobias asks someone in the promo clip. “The concept itself is beautiful but it’s a complete fantasy. [It’s] bad for my business.” Clearly, Tobias is talking about Jefferson Pierce’s (Cress Williams) return as vigilante Black Lightning, which poses a threat to The 100’s criminal ways.

In the latter part of the trailer, Tobias, along with one of his henchmen, visits a man who previously confirmed Black Lightning’s death. “You told me Black Lightning was dead. [But] since Black Lightning ain’t dead, you owe me a death,” Tobias menacingly tells the man before the mob boss orders his minion to beat up the poor guy.

According to the character’s official description, Tobias was a corrupt politician before becoming the head of The 100. His political career came to an end when Jefferson’s father, Alvin Pierce, exposed his corrupt activities to the public. Furious about what Alvin did, Tobias murdered him and was driven underground into exile. There, he found a place to rebuild and became the violent and methodical leader of The 100. When Black Lightning steps out of retirement, Tobias’ desire to emerge from the shadows is ignited.

Elsewhere in the trailer, Jefferson’s ex-wife Lynn Pierce (Chris Adams) tries to stop Jefferson from suiting up again as Black Lightning. When Lynn says that Jefferson saved more lives as the principal of Garfield High than he ever did as Black Lightning, he corrects her and says that “it’s a lie.”

Jefferson then reminds Lynn of her first reaction when she found out that he has powers. “When we first discovered my powers, you said it was a blessing from god,” he says. “And [now] I intend to use it.”

In addition to Williams, Adams and Krondon, “Black Lightning” also stars China Anne McClain as Jennifer Pierce, Nafessa Williams as Anissa Pierce, James Remar as Peter Gambi, and Damon Gupton as Henderson.

“Black Lightning” premieres on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018 at 9 p.m. EST on The CW. Watch the new trailer below: