Lee Daniels Campaigns To Bring Oprah, Spike Lee To Season 2 Of 'Empire'
Lee Daniels Campaigns To Bring Oprah, Spike Lee To Season 2 Of 'Empire'
Show creators look forward to less opulence and more episodes in season two
Posted: 03/11/2015 04:00 PM EDT
Described as the "black 'Dynasty,'" the musical drama starring Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson has television execs scratching their heads over how the show has continuously increased viewership over the last eight weeks. "Empire" undoubtedly wins for its captivating storyline and willingness to push the envelope.
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Yet another huge score is Daniels' ability to nab big-name talent for guest appearances that have included Naomi Campbell, Cuba Gooding Jr., Estelle, Courtney Love, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson and others. He's hoping to bring even more star power to season two with the long list of talent that are itching to get in on a piece of the action.
Daniels told The Hollywood Reporter Spike Lee has reached out to direct an episode of the series, and that's when he knew he had something special.
"That's when I realized what a beast [co-creator Danny Strong] and I have created," he said. Daniels added that he's wearing down Oprah Winfrey and has made more than a few calls to get her on set.
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In addition to more guest appearances, Strong is open to the idea of more episodes in season two (although Daniels is resisting) and both have entertained the idea of a cast musical tour a la "Glee." But for now, their aim to incorporate more of the "poorer-class African-American experience" that Lucious and Cookie Lyon are very much familiar with.
"I think we've seen the opulence," Daniels told THR, "but now we have to go back to where they come from."
The sky's the limit for "Empire," and we'll be watching every step of the way.
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