Unfortunately, there isn’t a new episode of “Empire” coming on. The show concluded its sixth and final season in April 2020. However, while there won’t be any new episodes, this definitive guide explores everything “Empire” fans need to know about the show’s legacy, re-watching options, potential future content, and more.
A Look Back at Empire: The Legacy and Conclusion
“Empire,” the groundbreaking musical drama series centered around the Lyon family and their hip-hop empire, left an indelible mark on television. From its captivating storylines to its star-studded cast and infectious soundtrack, the show captivated audiences for six seasons. While the series finale aired some time ago, the passion for “Empire” remains strong.
The initial seasons were a critical and commercial triumph, propelling actors like Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson, and Bryshere Y. Gray to even greater fame. The show tackled complex themes of family, loyalty, ambition, and the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry. As the seasons progressed, viewership numbers fluctuated, but “Empire” consistently remained a cultural touchstone, sparking conversations and setting trends.
However, behind-the-scenes controversies and declining ratings ultimately led to the decision to conclude the series with its sixth season. Although the planned finale couldn’t be fully realized due to production disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ending provided a sense of closure for most of the main characters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Empire
To further address the continued interest in “Empire,” let’s delve into some frequently asked questions:
Where Can I Watch All Episodes of Empire?
“Empire” is available for streaming on several platforms. You can typically find all six seasons on:
- Hulu: This is often the most convenient option for subscribers.
- Disney+: In some regions, “Empire” is available on Disney+ under the Star brand.
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase individual episodes or entire seasons.
- YouTube TV: If you have a YouTube TV subscription, check if “Empire” is available on-demand.
- FOX NOW App/Website: While FOX no longer airs new episodes, their app or website might still offer past seasons for streaming.
It’s always best to check the specific streaming services in your region for availability, as content libraries can vary.
Will There Be an Empire Reboot or Spin-Off?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for an “Empire” reboot or spin-off. There were discussions about a spin-off centered around Cookie Lyon (Taraji P. Henson) shortly after the series finale, but the project ultimately did not move forward. While the entertainment industry is constantly evolving, there is currently no indication of a revival on the horizon. However, given the show’s popularity, it’s not entirely impossible in the future, though it’s highly speculative.
What Happened to Jussie Smollett’s Character, Jamal Lyon?
Jussie Smollett, who played Jamal Lyon, was removed from “Empire” during the fifth season due to a controversy involving allegations of a staged hate crime. His character was written out of the show, and he did not return for the sixth and final season. This event significantly impacted the trajectory of the storyline and contributed to the show’s eventual decline.
Where Are the Cast Members of Empire Now?
The cast members of “Empire” have continued to pursue various projects in film, television, and music:
- Terrence Howard (Lucious Lyon): Howard has appeared in films such as “Cut Throat City” and continues to work on independent projects.
- Taraji P. Henson (Cookie Lyon): Henson has starred in numerous films and television shows, including “Hidden Figures,” “What Men Want,” and “Minx.” She is also an advocate for mental health awareness.
- Bryshere Y. Gray (Hakeem Lyon): Gray has continued to pursue his music career and has appeared in television shows.
- Trai Byers (Andre Lyon): Byers has been involved in various acting projects and is also active in social justice initiatives.
- Grace Byers (Anika Calhoun): Byers has appeared in television series like “Run the World” and “The Gifted.”
What Made Empire So Popular in the First Place?
“Empire” achieved widespread popularity due to several key factors:
- Compelling Storylines: The show’s dramatic storylines, filled with power struggles, family secrets, and romantic entanglements, kept viewers hooked.
- Iconic Characters: The characters, particularly Cookie Lyon, resonated with audiences and became cultural icons.
- Musical Performances: The show’s original songs and dynamic musical performances were a major draw for viewers.
- Diversity and Representation: “Empire” featured a predominantly Black cast and addressed issues of race, sexuality, and social justice, contributing to its cultural relevance.
- Star Power: The presence of established actors like Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson brought credibility and star power to the series.
What Were Some of the Biggest Controversies Surrounding Empire?
Besides the Jussie Smollett controversy, “Empire” faced some other criticisms:
- Over-the-Top Drama: Some viewers found the storylines increasingly melodramatic and unrealistic as the series progressed.
- Repetitive Plotlines: Critics pointed to a tendency for the show to recycle plotlines and character arcs.
- Decline in Quality: Many fans and critics felt that the writing and overall quality of the show declined in later seasons.
Can I Buy the Empire Soundtrack?
Yes! The “Empire” soundtracks, featuring original songs from the show, were incredibly popular and commercially successful. You can purchase or stream the soundtracks on platforms such as:
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Amazon Music
- YouTube Music
What Are Some Shows Similar to Empire That I Might Enjoy?
If you enjoyed “Empire,” you might also like these shows:
- Star: Another Lee Daniels-created series focusing on a girl group’s rise to fame in the music industry.
- Power: A crime drama centered around a drug dealer trying to legitimize his business.
- Greenleaf: A drama series about a megachurch family with secrets and scandals.
- Dynasty (Reboot): A modern reboot of the classic soap opera, filled with family drama and wealth.
- Nashville: A drama about the lives of country music stars in Nashville.
Was the Empire Finale Satisfying?
The “Empire” finale was generally considered somewhat rushed and incomplete due to production disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The intended ending wasn’t fully realized, and some storylines were left unresolved. While it provided a sense of closure for some characters, many fans felt that it didn’t live up to the potential of the series.
Where Was Empire Filmed?
“Empire” was primarily filmed in Chicago, Illinois. The city provided the backdrop for many of the show’s iconic scenes and added to its authenticity.
What Awards Did Empire Win?
“Empire” garnered numerous awards and nominations throughout its run, including:
- Primetime Emmy Award nominations
- Golden Globe Award wins (Taraji P. Henson for Best Actress – Television Series Drama)
- NAACP Image Awards
- BET Awards
Is There Any Unreleased Empire Music Available?
While there isn’t officially any new unreleased music from “Empire” being distributed, it’s worth keeping an eye on fan communities and online forums. Occasionally, snippets or unreleased tracks might surface. Follow the cast and crew on social media; any news about potential releases will likely appear there first.
While the era of new “Empire” episodes has passed, the show’s legacy continues to resonate with fans. By exploring these FAQs, hopefully, fans have a clearer understanding of the show’s conclusion and how to continue enjoying its impact.