Tommy Egan Sends Brutal Message in Power Book IV: Force Season 3 Episode 3
In Power Book IV: Force Episode 3, Tommy Egan teams with the Serbs to strike back at Roberto Ortega, delivering a violent message that escalates their ongoing war.

Tommy Egan confronts the Ortega cartel in a pivotal Power Book IV: Force Episode 3 moment. Courtesy of Starz
Tommy Egan’s brutal and strategic side, which fans of the series have come to expect, is showcased in Episode 3 of season three of Power Book IV: Force. The alliance he formed with the Serbs to send a vengeful message to Roberto Ortega, the head of the Marquez Cartel, is both calculated and merciless. This episode explores the depths of street power plays, revenge, and Tommy’s ruthless business in Chicago.
Tommy Egan’s Strategic Alliance with the Serbs
Tommy’s decision to partner with the Serbs signifies a significant shift in power on Chicago’s streets. This alliance is not based on friendship or trust, but on shared enemies and mutual benefit. The Serbs have suffered losses at the hands of Marquez Cartel, and Tommy, known for his no-nonsense approach, is ready to capitalize on that.
Working with the Serbians not only strengthens Tommy’s muscles but also sends a message that he is not afraid to go beyond dangerous boundaries. The alliance elevates his position and prepares for a brutal retaliation. A volatile mix of Tommy’s street savvy and the Serbs’ familiarity with ruthless tactics could disrupt Ortega’s operations.
The Deadly Message: Tossing Luis Ortega Over the Balcony
Tommy’s decision to throw Luis Ortega, Roberto Ortega’s uncle, over a balcony is a chilling moment in Episode 3. The act is not solely about violence; it is also a symbolic message meant to disrupt Roberto’s morale and control. Tommy is attacking Roberto’s power base’s core by attacking Luis Ortega. In the criminal world, family is a sacred concept, and attacking a family member is the ultimate retaliation. Tommy’s bold move demonstrates his willingness to escalate the conflict to new, dangerous heights. Tommy’s violent gesture confirms that he’s not only playing the game; he’s also modifying the rules.
A Raw and Unfiltered Declaration of War
Tommy sends a brutal message to Roberto’s remaining associates, revealing his intentions with brutal clarity, following Luis Ortega’s vicious assault. The lines, ‘I want to hurt this motherfucker so bad, I want to rip that motherfucker’s heart through his throat,’ reflect Tommy’s burning desire for revenge and dominance.
This declaration is not just a display of bravado. Roberto Ortega’s allies are being shaken and forced into submission by this tactical psychological strike. Tommy comprehends that power is not solely about territory or product; it’s also about fear and respect. His words are designed to encourage both and make it clear that he will do everything in his power to dismantle Ortega’s cartel.
Business Over Blood: The One-Time Deal That’s Anything but Simple
Tommy’s business sense during chaos is demonstrated in his offer of a ‘one-time deal’ concerning a bag full of products to the Serbs. Despite the violent backdrop, Tommy is aware that business should continue and that wisely utilizing resources can seal alliances and keep enemies at bay.
This deal is not just for profit; it’s a calculated risk to reinforce the temporary alliance while destabilizing Ortega’s supply chain. The way Tommy blends ruthless violence with shrewd business strategies makes him stand out in the cutthroat world of Chicago’s drug trade.
Understanding the Depth of the Ortega-Tommy Feud
Tommy is involved in a conflict with Roberto Ortega that goes deeper than just a surface-level rivalry. Through a shared enemy, Mirković’s murder is a grim catalyst that binds Tommy and the Serbs. Tommy’s resolve is fueled by this dynamic, which justifies the escalating violence. Through the episode, we learn about the history, grudges, and strategic positioning. Tommy’s respect for the Serbs grows from understanding their mutual hatred for Ortega. In the criminal underworld, alliances are frequently temporary and fueled by necessity rather than loyalty, and this is a reminder.
Psychological Warfare and Intimidation Tactics
Tommy’s approach isn’t limited to physical violence; he uses psychological warfare to destroy his enemies. Instructing the Serbs to send a message to Roberto is a way for Tommy to turn intimidation into a strategic weapon. His threat to cut [family trees] all the way to the fucking ground is a chilling reminder to Gabriel Ortega and Roberto of his willingness to annihilate anyone who stands in his way. Ortega’s forces become paranoid, distrustful, and fearful due to this type of messaging, further weakening their grip on power.
Tommy Egan’s Evolving Role in Chicago’s Crime Landscape
The episode depicts Tommy’s transition from a one-man operation to an influential leader who orchestrates alliances and vendettas across Chicago. A man who understands that survival in this game requires strategy, influence, and psychological dominance, and reflects in his brutal efficiency and street-smart alliances.
The Role of Loyalty and Betrayal
Tommy’s violent world makes loyalty a fleeting commodity. Episode 3 highlights the delicate balance between loyalty and betrayal as alliances shift due to power plays and survival instincts. Tommy’s alliance with the Serbs is short-lived, but it’s effective because it emphasizes that in the streets, trust is a calculated risk and betrayal is often only a step away.
Tommy Egan and Roberto Ortega’s conflict will intensify following this episode. The stakes are higher, the alliances are more dangerous, and the violence is more unpredictable. The Marquez Cartel will be on edge because of Tommy’s actions, as they will need to respond to a challenger who isn’t afraid to get their hands dirty and disrupt the established order.
Force is the master of tension, strategy, and raw power in Episode 3 of Power Book IV. Tommy Egan’s allegiance with the Serbs and his brutal message to Roberto Ortega escalate the stakes in Chicago’s criminal underworld. The man’s destiny is being shaped by his calculated violence and savvy business moves, regardless of the cost.
