Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5) features Franklin Clinton as one of its three protagonists, alongside Michael De Santa and Trevor Philips. Franklin’s character is further explored in Grand Theft Auto Online as part of The Contract update, where he appears as one of the two playable characters in the Short Trips mission series and the Double Down Adversary Modes, alongside Lamar Davis.

Early Life and Background

Born in South Los Santos in 1988, Franklin Clinton’s early life was marked by hardship. Raised without a father, his mother fell victim to cocaine addiction, allegedly due to abuse from Franklin’s father. After her death, Franklin lived with his grandparents, engaging in minor hustles like selling cigarettes with JB Bradshaw. The passing of his grandparents led him to live with his aunt Denise on Forum Drive, pushing him further into a life of crime.

During his teenage years, Franklin was expelled from Davis High School after an altercation with a teacher. This incident propelled him into gang activities and petty robberies with his friend Lamar Davis. His relationship with Tanisha Jackson ended due to his criminal lifestyle, which she feared would endanger her.

Criminal Ventures and Career Shift

Franklin’s criminal career escalated when he and Lamar began working for Simeon Yetarian, an Armenian businessman running a car dealership that served as a front for illegal activities. Their job involved repossessing cars from those who defaulted on payments. This job introduced Franklin to Michael De Santa, setting the stage for his involvement in more significant criminal endeavors.

Major Events and Collaborations

• Repossession Jobs: Franklin’s first encounter with Michael occurs during a repossession job, leading to high-stakes heists and personal vendettas.
• Vangelico Jewelry Store Heist: Franklin proves his mettle in a sophisticated heist, marking his transition from petty crime to major league.
• Association with Trevor Philips and Lester Crest: Introduced through Michael, Franklin’s association with these characters broadens the scope of his criminal activities, from drug deals to assassination contracts.
• Merryweather Heist: Franklin, Michael, and Trevor attempt to steal a superweapon, showcasing their teamwork despite differing personalities.
• Devin Weston’s Assignments: Working for the billionaire, Franklin, alongside Michael and Trevor, steals rare cars. This job further complicates their lives, leading to tension and betrayal.

Climactic Choices and Endgame

After various heists, including the monumental Union Depository heist, Franklin faces a moral and strategic dilemma:

• Endgame Choices: Franklin can choose to kill Trevor at the behest of FIB agent Steve Haines or Michael on orders from Devin Weston, or opt for a third path where all three work together to eliminate their enemies, showcasing true camaraderie and strategic planning.
• The Third Way: Franklin chooses this path, leveraging his relationship with Michael and Trevor to orchestrate an ambush, effectively neutralizing their threats and securing their future.