TV and Movies

I Finally Watched the First 2 Episodes of Empire. Here Are My Thoughts

Fox kicked off its new show Empire starring Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard on January 7, 2015 and I am just getting a chance to watch it. Directed by Lee Daniels, the show is about the owner of a record label (Lucious Lyon) and his family: ex-wife Cookie and their 3 sons (Andre, Jamal, Hakeem).

Empire Logo

Cookie just got out of prison after serving time for 17 years for drug dealing, but the $400,000 she made back then was what started Empire Records. Lucious’ company is now worth millions and she is trying to get what is hers after her return. He’s married now too and Cookie is not fazed. She has a razor-sharp mouth and is no-nonsense.

Lucious started from the bottom now he’s here. His company is so big now that he is taking it public. “From the street to Wall Street.” And he wants to groom the heir to his seat, keeping it all in the family.Andre Empire

Andre (played by Trai Byers) is the oldest Lyon son, and he’s the one who is most responsible out of all three. He is all about the business and he’s married to a white chick. He’s always in a suit and wears his Ivy League degree like a badge. He wants to get the company, and he’s worked for it but doubts that his father will leave it to him.

Jamal EmpireJamal (Jussie Smollett) is the middle son and he’s the tender heart, who is also gay. Him and his father are always at odds because of this. He is a musician but he gets no career support from Daddy Dearest because: gay. Although he hasn’t publicly come out to anyone but his family, he lives with his boyfriend in a dope loft and just wants to play the piano and sing ballads at same clubs. Him and Hakeem are really close.

Hakeem EmpireHakeem (Bryshere Gray) is the baby, and a rapper who loves “bitches and booze.” He wasn’t even 1 yet when Cookie went to prison so he feels no affection towards her. Even though he’s the most successful of all three, he’s also a knucklehead. Dude looks like Soulja Boy and acts like Chief Keef.

Everything I just said was provided to us within the first 30 minutes of the show.

Anywho, I watched the pilot episode and the one right after that and here are my thoughts.

* Terrence Howard cannot NOT be creepy. He always comes across as sleazy in every role and his character’s name is Lucious, afterall. It fits.

* I love me some Taraji Henson and she can do no wrong in my book. Cookie is my favorite character hands down. Yes, she seems like a grown up Yvette from Baby Boy but I don’t even mind it. I am here for her and her shade.

* The wardrobe of this show is interesting but it’s getting better. I’m especially happy that they got rid of the conk Lucious was wearing in the pilot. He was walking around with a damb conk, velvet blazers and ascots. He had Bruno Mars’ hair and Roland Martin’s wardrobe. Where is he going? He used to be a thug and now he’s rocking a pompadour because he got money? And Cookie? Well they just dress her in furry coats, lots of leopard and tiny dresses. TA-DA.

Cookie Lucious Conk

* Hakeem is a menace to society and I thoroughly enjoyed the scene where he called Cookie a bitch and she beat his ass up with a broomstick.

* There were a handful of times when Jamal was referred to using gay slurs. It kinda made sense when Lucious did it (because of the gate, we knew he was homophobic) but it did not feel true to Cookie’s character when she used them. Why? Because she accepts her son and has always defended him to his father. It felt gratuitous instead of necessary.

* So we find out that Lucious got ALS and Andre is bipolar. Will they make Jamal contract HIV? Hakeem might come down with the gout. Speaking of the ALS thing. When Lucious’ doctor broke the news that he had it, and therefore had 3 years of less to live, she was smiling. What type of rudeness? Don’t be giddy telling someone they’re gonna die soon. Chile…

* They mentioned President Obama a couple of times and acted like him and Lucious were BFFs and ace boon goons. I especially cackled after the scene where Hakeem talked sideways about the President and Lucious called his buddy to apologize. Talmbout “Barack, that language…” LMAO! Sir, stand up so you can have a seat.

* Andre’s wife is pulling his puppet strings but I was impressed by her blow job bib, doe. GENIUS! Be dirty but stay clean.

* There’s a singer who is the object of Hakeem’s desire and she didn’t return his crush until she realized how much of a bad boy he was. Her name is Tiana. Is she supposed to be Rihanna? Someone said she might be Teyana Taylor but… IDK.

Empire Cast

Yet and still, I enjoyed #Empire. I’ll keep watching it because it’s basically like a soap opera. I don’t expect TV to be perfect and I do admit that I am currently loving that Black people are actually on it. We shall see how Empire goes. It definitely has its problem areas (and that pilot was rough) but if it gets its legs, it can GO.

Now I’ll go watch the 2 more episodes I’ve missed it. I am a fan.

Have y’all been watching?

Edit: ah, Lucious and Anika aren’t married. Got it.

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76 Comments

  1. CreoleGirl
    February 1, 2015 at 10:07 am

    I’m definitely watching. I am totally here for Cookie. I think you may have missed that Luscious and Boo Boo Kitty are not married. I also think they’ve done a good job showing Cookie evolve. She explained she dressed like that because it’s what she had when she went to prison. (I think that also is why she uses the language she does with Jamal.) With each episode you see her evolve from her fashion to learning the business. They did a damn good job with casting, in my opinion. Everyone is playing the hell out of their roles. The only thing I’m confused about is Naomi Campbell and Gabby’s bra strap showing in the last episode.

    • Angee
      February 1, 2015 at 11:59 am

      OMG Creole Girl I totally agree with you about Gabby’s bra strap! What is going on? I don’t get Naomi’s part either.

      • Silk!
        February 1, 2015 at 11:49 pm

        I figured Naomi = mother abandonment issues.

      • Jen Jen
        February 2, 2015 at 10:07 pm

        Gabore’s bra strap appeared in Episodes 2 and 4, and I was not happy about that. FOX put up all that money for a show, but the costume crew can’t make sure Gabby is as flawless as the other actresses. Unacceptable. I noticed it each time it happened–there has to be someone on staff checking that stuff.

    • Vonetta
      February 2, 2015 at 4:51 am

      Chile, Naomi just need a job, lol.

  2. Melia
    February 1, 2015 at 10:08 am

    I watch it…you pretty much summed it up. I like Jamal’s character. The other two brothers annoy me. I think Tiana is Rihanna as opposed to Teyana since she actually puts out music. #noshade

    • Anastasia
      February 1, 2015 at 10:40 am

      Girl I have on my shades and sitting under palm trees..lol… I think she is a mix of both ri ri and teyana.. but I am enjoying empire very much so far and the music is really good. I hope they make an album of all the songs

      • cidefi
        February 2, 2015 at 1:01 am

        Anastasia they do have an Empire album. Every week Spotify puts out that weeks episode of music. So if don’t play the entire song on the show, they’ll have the entire song on spotify Thursday morning (I think is when they load it).

        Plus I heard you can buy the cd at Best Buy, but I don’t know if that’s true or not.

  3. Lala
    February 1, 2015 at 10:12 am

    I’m still referring to it as hustle and flow: the next generation. And an ok substitute until Power comes back. And by substitute I mean the same way Atlantic City is a substitute for Vegas-but not really

    • Lex
      February 1, 2015 at 10:25 am

      Yes!

    • Mellie
      February 1, 2015 at 4:58 pm

      Totally agree! It’s like DJ’s dream came true!

    • Jen Jen
      February 2, 2015 at 10:11 pm

      When I describe the show, I tell people it’s a cross between Smash + Love and Hip Hop + Shakespeare. They’ve had multiple musical numbers already, the ratchet is rampant, and the three brothers an Luscious are supposed to be a modern take on King Lear.

      I’m loving this show, and it’s teaching me important lessons–Yes, you can wear animal print every day. BJ bibs are a thing.

  4. Andrea
    February 1, 2015 at 10:15 am

    First episode, I made it through 20 minutes… I was truly fighting the air at the ghetto, ratchet, stereotypical, prison, overacting, and that GAHTDAYUM Terrence Howard!!!! Why do I hate him so??? For real and for fake… He bothers me. And how did Cookie exit jail after 17 years with clothes that fit and full-on new hair?? So, I was done.
    But then a friend suggested I take another look because the show had already been renewed for another season -I was clearly missing something. Long story short, I watched all episodes. Side eye, throughout… I can only do on demand when I remember cause this will not be on my ‘must see tv’ list…

    • lacy
      February 1, 2015 at 10:40 am

      I agree 100%. I feel the over the top gay slurs and Barack Obama ish is very over the top.

  5. February 1, 2015 at 10:18 am

    Funny. I just did a post on this myself and said some of the same things. A lot of cliches on this show. I still watch it though. ..

  6. Nnekbone
    February 1, 2015 at 10:21 am

    You have the best commenters. I’m CTFU over here!

  7. Twila
    February 1, 2015 at 10:37 am

    I like the show.

  8. krystal
    February 1, 2015 at 10:40 am

    Terrence Howard cannot act. He has the depth of a kiddie pool. His voice even annoys me. It sounds like he needs a decongestant to clear out his sinuses. I dont like any of the kids. The crappy, campy music to punctuate Cookie’s masterplan.before commercial break.in the first episode like a frikkin ghetto episode of Dallas or a Robert Townsend skit from the 80s REALLY pissed me off.
    #TheBoldTheBlackTheBeautiful

    Power, come back. I miss you, Boo!!!

  9. Bukky
    February 1, 2015 at 11:03 am

    I’m glad you’re watching it Luvvie! I didn’t expect it to be a groundbreaking drama but all Black shows don’t have to be that. If that garbage 2 and a half men can be on for so many damn seasons with C. Sheen as the lead…tv can give US a wide range of shows too. I’m happy to see any show with my folks headlining. It reminds me very much of Nashville (another night time soap opera about the music biz basically) and I’m excited to see how it all plays out.

    • whilome
      February 1, 2015 at 2:53 pm

      Thank You! Gimme my trash tv, too! Errrythang don’t have to be groundbreaking. But it must be delicious. I call this candy tv: it ain’t good for you, but you’ll snack on it just the same.
      We need enough of us in a variety of genres just to make a significant impact. And Empire is a smash hit. It’s one of the only shows whose numbers in the key demographic has risen on a weekly basis. If Vanderpump Rules can get a multi-season deal, I’mma need Terrance Babywipes Howard to keep on being a creepy kingpin some more.

  10. February 1, 2015 at 11:16 am

    i has definitely gotten better over the last couple of episodes. The characters are getting more depth and the stories are building. I agree with you about Taraji. I think she can play any kind of character she wants. One of the leading talents in Hollywood. She will be the core and the glue of this show.

  11. Milaxx
    February 1, 2015 at 11:20 am

    I’m watching and loving. Things you will see as you catch up on the next 2 eps:
    Lucious and Boo boo kitty aren’t married.
    Cookie’s clothing style is slowly evolving as she adjust to life out of prison.

    I had more but just realized they would be too spoilery.

    Someone called Hakeem’s friend Rhiannot .

    BTW – The movie that this show is loosely based on The Lion in Winter was on tv yesterday. I cracked up watching all the Shakespearean shade that Katherine Hepburn and co threw at each other.

    I am #TeamCookie all the way. Even more I am thrilled that not only is the show doing well, the rating actually increase each week.

    As for the critics, I’ll quote @TomandLorenzo here:
    “There’s a lot of astonishingly tone deaf if not downright condescending chatter right now as to “why” Empire is such a massive hit; a question or concern that didn’t greet, say, Revenge when it had a successful launch and popular first season. Certainly, it shouldn’t be considered out of bounds to discuss the cultural implications of a night-time soap opera with a predominantly black cast gaining a large audience, but there’s this underlying tone that’s part “Black people have discovered television!” and part “White teenagers have discovered black people!” Hey, how about, it’s a show with a really talented cast and creators, with a rather high number of Oscar, Emmy and Grammy nominations (and wins) among them; a situation that, if everyone involved was white, would be referred to as a show with a high “pedigree” whose success wouldn’t ever be questioned or need to be explained?

    We’re gonna go with that.

    We bring this up not to be confrontational (Well, okay. Maybe a little.) but because that high pedigree becomes more obvious to us with each passing week, either through beautiful writing, riveting acting or knock-your-socks-off singing – and sometimes, all three at the same time. This is some super-glossy, well-rendered entertainment that so far, hasn’t failed to deliver a fully satisfying hour each week. This might be a lazy cliche of a metaphor, but it feels like a really delicious, filling meal every time. It’s hard not to switch if off after that hour without thinking, “Well. That was fun, wasn’t it?”” http://tomandlorenzo.com/2015/01/empire-false-imposition/

    • Jen Jen
      February 2, 2015 at 10:14 pm

      Yes, Tom and Lorenzo, PREACH!

  12. JanuaryBabe
    February 1, 2015 at 11:23 am

    Ok you were on point so far….but you failed to mention Precious’s (yes Precious) bra strap a-n-d that blonde hair!!!! Plus, I am really loving how Porcha is evolving! Her lines are few but I’m loving her!

  13. Ella
    February 1, 2015 at 11:24 am

    I cannot ever look at Terrance Howard and not think he looks like someone’s old dirty uncle who is too familiar; that uncle your mamma doesn’t let you talk to during the family reunion cuz he might ask you to sit on his lap. Just greasy. Also: I just want someone in my life to act up so I can start referring to them as Boo Boo Kitty. So happy you are watching!!

  14. Ayika
    February 1, 2015 at 11:39 am

    Yes Luvvie I’ve been watching and everything about Cookie’s character is giving me black Mama realness. We all know how we would really react if our semi adult child called us that name, and the wizardry and speed with which she wielded that broom on that boy’s ass while expertly correcting his perception of what will be tolerated was life confirming for me. Cookie’s character has my vote for successor to empire, because not only is she quick to pick up the business side, but she does not give one damb about the inner feelings of her ex, his creole queen, or anyone else.

  15. lo
    February 1, 2015 at 11:42 am

    I’m here for whatever interaction Cookie has with Jamal’s boyfriend. She called him la cucaracha and dora which is reason enough for me to continue watching. Cookie alone is keeping me here

    • carleen
      February 1, 2015 at 11:52 am

      Dora! LOL #teamCookie

  16. carleen
    February 1, 2015 at 11:47 am

    I’m here for Empire. I didn’t dig Scandal right out the gate either and stopped watching the first season. So I’ll give Empire a chance to find its groove. I feel sorry for all the non-Cookie characters right now cause they just don’t compare. The white wife is close. She might grow into a Mellie-type power. But in the meantime they should just call it “Cookie’s Revenge” or “The Return of Cookie.” And let Pam Grier play somebody’s auntie. Is Richard Roundtree still alive? He can be somebody’s uncle. Also, they need to stop pretending Russell Simmons and Puffy play POTUS like that.

    • Kk
      February 1, 2015 at 10:36 pm

      Let’s not forget that it airs on Fox. Pretending that Russell Simmons and Puffy play POTUS like that was probably a contractual requirement for getting the danged show on the air…

      • carleen
        February 2, 2015 at 8:26 am

        good point!

    • Lisa
      February 3, 2015 at 2:43 pm

      Off topic, and curious….but are u Carleen Brice?

  17. Gillian
    February 1, 2015 at 12:07 pm

    I’ve been watching and loving Empire. I’m surprised at how much I like it. Cookie is everything. Her prayer at the family dinner (“God, please do not withhold your blessings, even from hoes that send skanks to spy on me. In Jesus name, Amen”) was EPIC.

    • NiHi
      February 1, 2015 at 6:02 pm

      The cherry on top of that prayer is when she did the sign of the cross then blew a kiss at Boo Boo Kitty!!!

  18. Nancoise
    February 1, 2015 at 1:07 pm

    It’s over the top and I love it.

    I think Cookie actually took the fall for Lucious, did she not? So she was locked up for 17 yrs, missed her babies growing up, was abandoned by her husband…

    Yes, her name-calling on Jamal is unsettling, but I give her a pass because she does love him and he knows it. And she respects his talent.

    Scandal slides on down on my list.

  19. February 1, 2015 at 1:33 pm

    I think they should re-title it: The Most Ratchet All the Ratchets Ratched in Ratchetville.

    But I am there for Cookie.

    PS: Cookie needs to beat Terrance Howard with some baby wipes. Just “because”.

    • Mobaygurl
      February 1, 2015 at 6:25 pm

      Dead @ “baby wipes.” We shall never forget, shall we???! Roflol!

  20. Margie
    February 1, 2015 at 1:50 pm

    Love the show especially the music, which is available on iTunes.

  21. Bobbie
    February 1, 2015 at 2:21 pm

    Someone asked what Naomi’s part was about. I think it was foreshadowing Hakeem’s real issues with Cookie and not just the superficial “I don’t know you b/c you weren’t there.” Just manipulative. Naomi made him call her momma… Several times. Lawd Jevus! As previously stated by others, Cookie is my girl not just b/c she’s funny but b/c she evolves is loyal & is that part of me that I have to pray for & put too sleep every morning M-F in order to keep this corporate job & benefits. I abhor the stereotypes being displayed amongst mixed company in tv land but I will continue to watch.

  22. SIPort
    February 1, 2015 at 2:37 pm

    I love Empire.

    There is a segment of this country that loves a soap opera (I include myself strongly in that segment) and that is what Empire is -a Black Soap Opera.

    Can you say, Dallas, Dynasty, Knots Landing, Falcon Crest?

    What’s wrong with a nighttime soap?

    I loved all of those shows.

    I am Team Cookie all the way.

    The bottom line is that Cookie was Ride or Die for a man that wasn’t worth it. Plain and simple.

    Lucious hasn’t been taking care of business. I love the flashbacks for this show because they show that Cookie held it all the way down. Not only was she out there, hustling, doing that drug dealing thing, but she understands the music BUSINESS, and she was there, pushing Lucious, and guiding him. When she says that this is her company – SHE’S BEING REAL.

    This was 17 years ago – do you know how much Cookie must have been ‘ in that life’ – to get $400,000?

    Come on, now.

    Lucious should have had everything ready for Cookie from the moment he heard that she was out. She should not have had to ask for anything – job, apartment, chauffered car. It should have been placed at her feet once he found out that she was out of jail.

    Some folks complain that Cookie doesn’t ‘respect privacy’. Cookie was in jail for 17 years – she’s had NO PRIVACY for all that time.

    Andre was the oldest. Andre was in the back of the car when they were doing deals. Andre was hiding guns for Lucious. Andre knows all about ‘ those streets’, so it’s quite understandable that he ran and did the Mr. Brooks Brothers/Ivy League thing complete with the White wife.

    Jamal is the one that Lucious should fear the most, not because he’s gay, but because:
    1. he’s more talented than Lucious
    2. he’s got Lucious’ work ethic and more

    Hakeem getting the empire is ridiculous because he’s the opposite of Jamal
    1. He doesn’t have Lucious’ level of talent
    2. He’s way too entitled
    3. Doesn’t even know what a work ethic is.

    Lucious is being silly. Andre knows the company, inside and out. By Lucious’ own admission, Andre’s given his life for the company – actually working, while Jamal has been ‘ finding himself’, and Hakeem is out there partying. He’s trying to take the company public. If I was an investor and they tried to push Hakeem, I would laugh Lucious out of the room. He should make Andre the head, and then have Hakeem and Jamal be profit centers for the company.

    I can’t wait to see who they have guest star on this show. Being based in the entertainment industry, they can get all sorts of folks come and do a few episodes, and then see them leave.

    • whilome
      February 1, 2015 at 4:37 pm

      Complete and thorough READ right here!
      I just bingewatched this show today and I am here for this shit!
      I teach Shakespeare and this is right up my alley.

    • GlamGeek
      February 1, 2015 at 5:56 pm

      Spot on SIPort.

      As for the stereotypes; unless you see something that you are very familiar with in your own life, they should not bother you too much. There are other characters that fit within other notches of society. There is one that’s refined, one is very educated, one is very professional, proper, etc. for every personality type shown on this show, we all know or have met someone who fits it. Three characters that portray a negative connotation doesnot negate the other ten positive characters. It’s a soap oopera and it should contain a a full array of personalties in order to be interesting and to provide clashes.

    • Gillian
      February 2, 2015 at 4:39 pm

      “Hakeem getting the empire is ridiculous because he’s the opposite of Jamal”

      -Can I PLEASE get this on a t-shirt? The very thought of Hakeem being a successor candidate is just laughable to me.

  23. Z
    February 1, 2015 at 2:41 pm

    So I haven’t watched it and don’t plan to just because I’m not a soap opera person. I will say that, when I first saw the trailers, I was appalled and thought “everyone on this cat deserves better.” I thought it looked line it was going to be an endless parade of stereotypes and another chance for White people tho shake their heads and say “I knew it!” So I’m glad to hear that it’s got done referring qualities.

    Also, y’all are talking the truth about Terence Howard. So smarmy, except in Mr. Holland’s Opus. Wherever I have to watch anything of his, I just picture him as that sweet football player with no rhythm.

    • NiHi
      February 1, 2015 at 6:20 pm

      We have GOT to stop worrying about what white folks think about us. There is a segment of society that will NEVER change their mind about us no matter how many positive images they see. I have never measured my worth by their opinion.

      • Out of lurkdom
        February 1, 2015 at 6:30 pm

        Here, here NiHi!

        • YAJ
          February 5, 2015 at 4:16 am

          **clears throat** “hear, hear”…

  24. Milaxx
    February 1, 2015 at 3:49 pm

    @Luvvie – Please post after you watch the funegro episode. Honestly, I would mind if you recapped this show. No pressure, I realize you’re busy with other things. I’m just putting it out there.

  25. Sunny
    February 1, 2015 at 4:44 pm

    Lucious and Boo-Boo Kitty are not married. Maybe that means he may still want a bite of Cookie. (ba dum da!)

    • carleen
      February 2, 2015 at 8:32 am

      I can’t tell if he’s playing Cookie to get her producing skills or if he still loves her…or a little of both. Terrance & Taraji have great chemistry together. You can tell they know each other.

      • Gillian
        February 2, 2015 at 4:44 pm

        I love their chemistry! I can understand why Boo Boo Kitty is concerned.

  26. Soozy2shooz
    February 1, 2015 at 4:58 pm

    ITA with all! I’ve only watched the first episode so far. My head hurt afterwards from from constant eye-rolling at all the stereotypical schlock to wade thru. However, when Cookie picked up that broom and cleaned Hakeem’s clock, I applauded! That’s how a REAL sista deals with that level of teenage disrespect!

    Taraji P. Henson is the reason to watch.

    I’ll let this show find its groove before I dive back in for a binge, though.

  27. Crystal
    February 1, 2015 at 5:26 pm

    I agree with an earlier commenter who stated it’s like the show Nashiville just based on a different genre.

    My highlights so far:
    -the broom beat down
    -the high level crazy of the white wife
    -the casting

    My lows:
    -when Lucius put Jamal in the trash can I bout jumped through the screen with my own broom stick
    -the overuse of stereotypes
    -Hakeem’s entitled ass

  28. February 1, 2015 at 5:40 pm

    I just watched all four episodes last night. I have to say these comments are spot on and I am so here for Cookie! I love her! That “broom beat-down” had me screaming, “YAS, beat that azz for disrespecting momma!!” I am also loving Jamal. He just wants to live and be his own gay self. Daddy Lucious ain’t having it though. I’m loving Anika’s lippies, especially in the last two episodes, but she irks the hell out of me. Her and Hakeem’s disrespectful azz!! Hustle and Flow 2.0/2015 this is.

  29. NiHi
    February 1, 2015 at 5:45 pm

    ” but it did not feel true to Cookie’s character when she used them. Why? Because she accepts her son and has always defended him to his father.” I think it makes perfect sense. Cookie is like a white person that loves and/or marries someone black, but don’t like black people as a whole. I get the impression Cookie isn’t necessarily pro-gay, she’s just pro-Jamal.

    Terrance Howard makes you want to take a shower the way he looks at women. I heard the first choice for Lucious was Nino Brown/Wesley Snipes. He would have kilt it, but another choice could have been Leon, D. B. Woodside, or my favorite Richard T. Jones. You never put two light skinned people together and everyone knows tall, DARK, and handsome is what’s needed in a leading man. Empire needs to find a role for one of these three brothers.

  30. IRENE
    February 1, 2015 at 5:45 pm

    I felt the same way about negative stereotypes when I had only watched the first 2 episodes and actually decided to stop watching but thank goodness I watched the next 2 because i have being pleasantly suprised
    Yes I thought the same thing about stereotypes and was rolling my eyes at the Obama nonsense until I realised the following
    1. Under all the stereotypes is a well written show with very good character developement
    2. I love Scandal and HTGAWM but talking of stereotypes both Olivia Pope and Annalise Keating are the classic ones of black women sucessful who dont have husbands. So being a mistress is a positive stereotype just because they wear designer clothes and are both college educated?
    3. Cookie had/has what both Olivia and Annalise want a husband who loves her and 3 handsome sons.
    At the end of the day this is a story about a powerful, rich father of 3 sons who was completely involved from day one in his sons lives .His sons all love and respect him and are all vying for his favour .
    We have seen this story a million times in film and tv shows but when has the family ever being BLACK!! We need to see black father/ son relationships on TV.
    Keep watching I promise you it gets better every episode I am a huge fan of Scandal and HTGAWM but Empire is a must on wednesday night!!

    • Chiquita
      February 4, 2015 at 6:25 pm

      I see your points but the character Annalise Keating is married who was having an affair with a detective. Plus her husband was known to have affairs as well.

  31. February 1, 2015 at 6:56 pm

    I was a bit thrown when the first episode opened with a rap music video and almost decided to not finish watching right there. I’m glad I stuck around. I am really enjoying the story line and the Shakespearean level drama. Cookie is the ONE and I am enjoying her character thoroughly. I wonder what she will do when she finds out “The Lion” as the homeless man called him, killed her favorite cousin? Also, I believe Cookie was released early due to her deal with the Feds and that’s why it was a shock to everyone that she was out. I also heard buzz that we will see many famous faces come through as guests on the show. Denzel, who has never done tv as far as I know, has even been open to appearing. Oh, and I LOVE the flashbacks! Cookie’s “round the way girl” hair and earrings gave me life!

    • SIPort
      February 1, 2015 at 9:01 pm

      The last time Denzel did television was St. Elsewhere.

      I can’t wait to see him on Empire.

  32. Kk
    February 1, 2015 at 10:44 pm

    I am loving Empire, but I disagree that it’s a soap opera. Empire is a gangster film that shows the dark side of doing business, only this time in a hip-hop setting. Genius! I’m pretty sure that, between the beef with Barretti, Titan’s turf wars, and whomever that is that Cookie rolled on to get out of jail early and is now being pressured to testify against, some mafioso mess is going to be happening within the next few episodes. This is not Dallas, Nashille, or St. Elsewhere. It’s more like The Sopranos, The Godfather, and American Gangster.

    • Tay
      February 3, 2015 at 3:34 pm

      It’s a soap opera. Lee Daniels said it’s a Black Dynasty.

  33. February 2, 2015 at 8:01 am

    I like the show a lot. The music is on point for the most part. You can tell Timbaland is all up in there. And, the outfits are getting a lot better. I did not like how tacky they had Cookie looking. I know she is street, but she is bad ass, too. Definitely my favorite character.

  34. February 2, 2015 at 9:20 am

    Empire is the millennium “Dynasty” with the over the top background music “Dun dun duuuunnnn!” Cookie is the queen of reads and her shade throwing should earn her a trophy in Shade History. Renaming Anika as Boo Boo Kitty gave me life!

  35. mzmiamiheat
    February 2, 2015 at 10:19 am

    Everything else has pretty much been said so I will say this and be done: I give Hakeem credit for one thing: His lips STAY hydrated. I wonder if he can share his secret with Duchess (black ink crew) because her lips stay in a constant struggle for moisture….#inquiringmindawannaknow

  36. February 2, 2015 at 11:26 am

    I thought I was the only one who thought that Cookie calling her son gay slurs seemed so out of place. I mean..she loved him so much…she would kill and even go to jail for her family (but esp him). I feel like Lee Daniels is over the top with that.

  37. Angie
    February 2, 2015 at 2:23 pm

    Stereotypes & the overt use of “scary” music anytime the main cast refers to taking over the Empire (before cutting to commercial break…) aside, I love the diverse representation of Black folk that this show brings to the small screen. Different skin tones, weights, ages, etc – all doing their thing. And I am so here for it 😉

  38. February 3, 2015 at 8:52 am

    I binge-watched the first four episodes on the weekend and I love it. Is it just me or is it kind of like Platinum by Aliya S. King? It reminds me so much of that book.

  39. Cherie in the D
    February 3, 2015 at 10:19 am

    I was excited before the show began. We need to see more black families on television! I wonder is that the path Bill Cosby was going before all of the allegations as far a him trying to purchase a network? Empire is refreshing to watch on TV just for the simple fact of it has good actors that look like me and good music. I do think they push the envelope sometime times but that is the business. I read somewhere that the show was developed with Wesley Snipes in mind as Luscious but Taraji fought for Terrance. IMO I would have loved to see Wesley in this part. I like the show and will stay tuned in.

    Can we start a petition to bring back Soul Food the series! Miss that show…

  40. February 3, 2015 at 11:24 am

    This is a great post. Empire is my new series obsession. It is not perfect and like you said I just love the fact that there are black people on it and no one has ever really done a show about the behind the scenes of entertainment. Apparently Timbaland is behind the music on the show…And it is on point! The second seasion was approved recently..#Empire groupie..

    Y.M.
    IRepCamer

  41. February 4, 2015 at 7:16 am

    The line: “Talmbout “Barack, that language…” Sir, stand up so you can have a seat.” Bwahaha Made my night and the article for me. #Iamfan

  42. Kel
    February 4, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    Blow job bib?!? I saw that and my immediate reaction was “If she is good at what she does, she won’t need the bib”.

  43. February 4, 2015 at 10:06 pm

    Love every comment! I haven’t been into a television show in quite some time. YEARS! I love Empire all the way. It’s exciting to have a show I make sure I’m home, fed, and ready to watch.

    Cookie & Jamal are my favorite.

    Hakeem gets on my nerves (in a good way) but is a really great character for conflict. His role intrigues me especially as this is his breakout role.

    PS: Bib. Noted for future reference.

  44. Chelle
    February 5, 2015 at 6:23 am

    Thank you for the update! I probably won’t watch, but will keep up with your hilarious updates so I can pretend I know what people are talking about. Sorta kinda how I know all about ratchet reality without ever having watched. Your updates are way more entertaining, and are a way more efficient use of my limited time here on earth!! You provide a valuable public service. Thanks Luvvie! You’re my BFF for life!

    • Chelle
      February 5, 2015 at 6:25 am

      P.S. respectfully requesting a photo of this bib. . . I can’t even imagine!! LOL

  45. Marquita
    February 6, 2015 at 9:43 am

    I’m HERE for mom Cookie and the gay son Jamal. Forget the rest of them. Hell no.

  46. Karen Walcott
    February 21, 2015 at 11:56 pm

    I find Hakeem’s high top fade DISGUSTING!!!! It’s 2015 not 1993. It’s one of the things I hate most about his character.