The Most Dangerous Man To Walk The Streets of New Orleans: Telly Hankton

Many people in New Orleans have heard the name Telly Hankton—especially those from Josephine Street in Uptown. Known for his flashy lifestyle, nice cars, and bikes, Telly became a street legend long before his name hit national headlines. In a city where hustlers and heavyweights come and go, Hankton’s name carried a different kind of weight—one that struck both respect and fear into those who crossed his path.

Before the chaos that later defined his legacy, Telly was known for “getting money” and living life like a local celebrity. His presence in Uptown was impossible to ignore, often seen surrounded by people who admired his confidence and street smarts. Over time, his circle grew to include ties to some of the city’s biggest names in music, including B.G. and Birdman, further cementing his notoriety in both the streets and the entertainment world.

But things took a darker turn after the murder of his cousin, Cup. Those close to the situation say that this tragic loss changed everything for Telly. What followed would set off a wave of violence that reshaped the streets of New Orleans for years to come. The city had seen dangerous men before—but few moved with the precision, resources, and influence that Telly Hankton did.

While many view him as one of the most feared figures to ever walk the streets of New Orleans, others see him as a reflection of the environment that created him—a city defined by loyalty, loss, and survival. Whether viewed as a villain or a legend, one thing remains certain: Telly Hankton’s name will forever echo through the streets of Uptown as one of the most dangerous men to ever call New Orleans home.