Top Boy is back on Netflix. The long-awaited fifth season (the third since its revival on Netflix) is the final chapter in the story of Dushane and Sully, two Hackney-based drug dealers, and their criminal enterprise. Given its setting, the show’s characters use many slang words that may be unfamiliar to some viewers. One such example is the word “dark”. So, what does “dark” mean in Top Boy on Netflix?
WARNING: Spoilers below for Top Boy season 5
The word is used in relation to the death of one of the show’s key characters, Lauryn Lawrence. After Lauryn’s shocking death at the end of season 5 episode 2, it is explained that she drowned in the bath after taking a mysterious drug called “dark”.
Why did Lauryn take “dark” in Top Boy?
Lauryn took the drug after struggling to cope with the death of her abusive ex-boyfriend Curtis. Lauryn stabbed Curtis to death at the end of season 4. She subsequently gave birth to their child (who is introduced to viewers in season 5) and was showing signs of severe depression.
Upon discovering Lauryn had previously taken “dark”, her sister Jaq warned her against it. However, Lauryn ultimately decided to take it again which resulted in her tragic death.
What is “Dark” in Top Boy?
“Dark” is a slang word for heroin. The word comes from the typically dark appearance of the drug.
Heroin is a dangerous and highly addictive opioid that is taken all over the world. It provides users with intense euphoric effects and is commonly sold by drug dealers, such as the main characters in Top Boy who profit from its distribution.
Who sold the “Dark” to Lauryn?
While viewers are shown a character selling dark to Lauryn, some may be wondering who it was. This becomes a key plot point in the show following Lauryn’s death when Jaq becomes obsessed with finding out who sold her the drug.
Young drug dealer Rowmando (known as Row) sold the dark to Lauryn. In epsiode 3, Jaq goes to his house and assaults him in front of his mother as retribution. After being attacked by Jaq, Row begs for mercy and insists: “I was just shottin’ like you told me!”
After punching him numerous times, Jaq leaves Row’s home in frustration. Later in the season, Row is seen back on the streets selling drugs again.
Were you surprised by Lauryn’s death in Top Boy? Let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to check out our other Film & TV articles…
