The final episode of Empire, titled “Home is on the Way,” revolved around the Lyon family’s fractured state and their desperate attempts to reunite and protect their legacy amidst a looming threat from Kelly Patel. Ultimately, it was a story about redemption, forgiveness, and the enduring power of family, even amidst the cutthroat world of the music industry.
The Culmination of a Dynasty’s Trials
The sixth and final season of Empire was cut short due to production shutdowns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This resulted in the originally planned series finale, initially envisioned as the 20th episode, being truncated. Instead, episode 18, “Home is on the Way,” served as the de facto series conclusion, leaving some storylines unresolved but attempting to provide a sense of closure for the Lyon family.
A Family Divided, A Legacy Threatened
The episode opens with the Lyons still reeling from the tumultuous events of the season. Lucious is on the run, accused of crimes he didn’t commit, and Andre’s mental health continues to be a significant concern. Cookie struggles to hold the family together, while Hakeem and Jamal grapple with their own personal demons and professional aspirations. The primary antagonist, Kelly Patel, remains a persistent threat, determined to dismantle Empire Entertainment and destroy the Lyon legacy.
The heart of the episode lies in the family’s struggle to overcome their internal conflicts and present a united front. Lucious, despite his flaws and past transgressions, realizes the importance of his family and fights to protect them. Cookie, ever the matriarch, works tirelessly to reconcile the Lyons and secure their future. This theme of family above all else resonates throughout the episode, providing a poignant reminder of the bond that ultimately defines them.
Justice and Reconciliation
“Home is on the Way” features several key plot points reaching resolution (or attempting to, given the shortened season). The case against Lucious is addressed, though perhaps not with the level of detail some viewers might have desired. Andre’s struggles with his mental health are depicted with sensitivity, highlighting the importance of seeking help and support. Moreover, the episode showcases moments of reconciliation between family members, hinting at a brighter future for the Lyon dynasty, even if that future is uncertain. Jamal, though absent from much of the season due to actor Jussie Smollett’s departure, is mentioned, acknowledging his continued presence in the family’s narrative.
Unpacking the Ending: Lingering Questions Answered
While the finale strived to provide closure, the abrupt end left many viewers with questions. The following FAQs aim to address some of the most common concerns and provide a deeper understanding of the episode and its context.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Did Lucious actually go to jail in the end?
No, Lucious does not end up in jail in the final episode. While he’s facing accusations throughout the season, the episode focuses more on the family’s efforts to clear his name and protect him from Kelly Patel’s machinations. The exact details of how the legal issues are resolved are somewhat vague due to the rushed ending, but it’s implied that he avoids imprisonment.
FAQ 2: What happened to Kelly Patel?
Kelly Patel’s storyline reaches a climax in the final episode. While he remains a significant threat, his plans to dismantle Empire are ultimately thwarted by the Lyons working together. The specifics of his downfall are somewhat ambiguous due to the truncated season, but he loses his power and influence, effectively neutralizing his threat to the family.
FAQ 3: Was Jamal Lyon mentioned in the finale?
Yes, Jamal Lyon was mentioned, although he did not physically appear in the episode. His absence was attributed to him living in London with his husband, Kai. The show acknowledged his continued connection to the family, even though Jussie Smollett’s controversial exit prevented his participation in the later seasons.
FAQ 4: Did Cookie and Lucious get back together?
The final episode strongly suggests that Cookie and Lucious will find their way back to each other. Despite their tumultuous history and the challenges they face, their love and connection are undeniable. The episode ends with a sense of hope for their reconciliation, leaving the audience to believe that they will ultimately rebuild their relationship.
FAQ 5: What happened to Andre Lyon’s mental health issues?
Andre’s struggles with his mental health are a recurring theme throughout the series, and the finale addresses them with care. The episode depicts him seeking treatment and support, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health challenges. While his journey is ongoing, the finale offers a sense of hope for his recovery and stability.
FAQ 6: Were there any cliffhangers left unresolved?
Due to the shortened season, several storylines were left unresolved. The fate of some secondary characters and specific business ventures were not fully explored. The ending primarily focused on providing closure for the core Lyon family members, leaving some peripheral narratives incomplete.
FAQ 7: How did COVID-19 impact the ending of Empire?
The COVID-19 pandemic forced production to shut down prematurely, resulting in the final season being cut short. The original plan was to film 20 episodes, but only 18 were completed. This necessitated a rushed and somewhat condensed finale, which left some storylines unresolved and may have disappointed viewers who were expecting a more comprehensive conclusion.
FAQ 8: Did the show address the Jussie Smollett controversy?
The show did not directly address the Jussie Smollett controversy within the narrative. Jamal Lyon’s absence was simply explained as him living in London, without delving into the real-world circumstances surrounding the actor’s departure. The show chose to avoid directly referencing the controversial events.
FAQ 9: What were the critical reactions to the final episode?
Critical reactions to the final episode were mixed. Some praised the show for attempting to provide closure despite the challenges of a shortened season, while others criticized the rushed pacing and unresolved storylines. The lack of a true series finale and the absence of Jamal Lyon were common points of criticism.
FAQ 10: What is the overall legacy of Empire?
Empire holds a significant place in television history as a groundbreaking drama series that explored themes of family, power, music, and race. The show’s diverse cast and storylines resonated with a wide audience, making it a cultural phenomenon. While the later seasons faced criticism and challenges, Empire‘s initial success helped pave the way for greater representation in television.
FAQ 11: Are there any plans for a reboot or spin-off of Empire?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for a reboot or spin-off of Empire. While rumors have circulated, no official announcements have been made regarding the future of the franchise. The possibility remains open, but nothing is currently in development.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch Empire?
Empire is available for streaming on various platforms, including Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. Check your local listings for availability in your region. You may also be able to purchase episodes or seasons on digital platforms like iTunes and Google Play.
A Legacy of Music, Power, and Family
While the ending of Empire may not have been exactly as planned, the show ultimately delivered a message of hope and redemption. The Lyon family, despite their flaws and challenges, remained united in their love for each other and their desire to protect their legacy. The final episode served as a reminder that family, above all else, is the foundation upon which empires are built. Even amidst the cutthroat world of the music industry, the bond between Cookie, Lucious, and their sons ultimately defines their story. The enduring impact of Empire lies not just in its dramatic storylines and catchy music, but also in its exploration of universal themes of family, ambition, and the complexities of the human condition.