James Darmody is a fictional character from the television series Boardwalk Empire, which aired from 2010 to 2014. He is portrayed by actor Michael Pitt and is depicted as a young man involved in organized crime during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City. James is the son of a bootlegger and becomes a key figure in the criminal underworld, navigating complex relationships and power struggles. Throughout the series, James struggles with his identity and moral dilemmas, often torn between his ambitions and the consequences of his actions. His character is significant in exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the impact of the American Dream on individuals in a corrupt society.