The past decade plus has seen the rise of several urban filmmakers that have put faces of color back on television screens and movies. Among the most-prominent is Tyler Perry. But, Lee Daniels has silently built a solid resume, as well, emerging with “Empire,” earlier this year.
Led by Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson, “Empire” was TV’s breakthrough hit in 2015. The hip hop-themed soap opera won over in a big way, making stars out of Jussie Smollett and Bryshere Gray. Both play two of Howard and Henson’s sons.
Lee Daniels recently did a press conference with “Empire” co-creator, Danny Strong. In the interview, he discussed the breakout success “Empire” had and how they deal with homophobia, revealing he and Jussie Smollett have faced death threats. Daniels also explained that FOX is supportive of every decision they make and how social media has helped the show tremendously.
Source: Deadline
