... "Joe Harper," was revealed to be Tommy Darmody, Gillian's grandson. By Helene Stapinski October 26, ... left, as Nucky Thompson and Travis Tope as Joe Harper, in “Boardwalk Empire.” ... Cut to Nucky lecturing Joe Harper on the boardwalk. Speculation that Joe Harper is really Tommy Darmody has been running rampant ever since the kid played by Travis Tope showed up in Atlantic City and managed to get himself hired by Mickey Doyle.. Boardwalk Empire (TV Series 2010–2014) cast and crew credits, including actors, actresses, directors, writers and more. Tommy shoots Nucky three times before being restrained by the police. ‘Boardwalk Empire’ Finale Recap: Golden Memories. Here's What Happened On The 'Boardwalk Empire' Finale. There are only two episodes left in the final season of Boardwalk Empire and so far here’s what we know about him: he’s told Doyle he was strong as an ox, grew up on a farm and was about to turn 16. Harper reveals that his real name is Tommy Darmody, Jimmy's son and Gillian's grandson. He asks where the $1,000 is that he gave him. In 1931, Nucky comes across Joe Harper again.