Lee Daniels, the acclaimed filmmaker and co-creator of the hit drama series “Empire,” recently opened up about his challenging experience working on the show, which aired on Fox from 2015 to 2020. Despite its tremendous success, Daniels revealed that “Empire” was “absolutely the worst experience” of his career. The show, featuring stars like Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson, captivated audiences with its dramatic storylines, unforgettable characters like Cookie Lyon, and chart-topping original music. But behind the scenes, the creative journey was anything but smooth.
In a candid interview with The Film Stage, Daniels shared that his time on “Empire” was marked by frustration and creative constraints. “I don’t like staying in the same lane just as a creative,” Daniels explained, reflecting on his decision to enter the world of television. He was curious about what it would be like to work within the framework of a major network, where creative decisions often involve navigating the demands of corporate executives. “I wanted to know what that experience was like,” Daniels added.
“All of my friends, they get notes and stuff. And I’m like, ‘What is that like?!’ You know what I mean?”
Before “Empire,” Daniels was known for his fiercely independent films, which were often funded outside of the traditional studio system. His breakout project, “Monster’s Ball,” famously produced with unconventional financing, earned Halle Berry an Academy Award, making her the first Black woman to win the Best Actress Oscar. “All of my projects had been independently financed where I’m able to…do my thing and nobody is in my head,” Daniels recalled. “There are so many filmmakers and writers that I respect who have to answer to people. So, I only did ‘Empire’ just so I could see what that experience was like.”
However, working within the confines of a major television network was a harsh awakening for Daniels.
“It was horrible. Absolutely the worst experience,”
he confessed. “But guess what? The money, money, money! I was able to put my kids through college and stuff. So that in itself was worth it.” Despite the financial benefits, Daniels makes it clear that the creative restrictions and corporate oversight took a toll on his artistic freedom.
Daniels is currently promoting his latest project, “The Deliverance,” a horror movie produced for Netflix. While he originally planned to stay in television with a spinoff series focusing on Henson’s iconic character, Cookie Lyon, the project never materialized. Henson, deeply invested in preserving the integrity of her character, expressed her disappointment when the spinoff fell through. “All they wanted was another Cookie show,” Henson shared. “But I said, ‘I’ll do it, but it has to be right. The people deserve…she’s too beloved for y’all to mess it up.’ When they didn’t get it right, I was like, ‘Well, that’s it,’ and they had nothing else. ‘You’re all fired.’”
Reflecting on her career and her time on “Empire,” Henson emphasized the importance of recognizing one’s value in the entertainment industry. “It took me years to get there…you are the prize. Don’t you ever forget that. You are the talent. You are their check. Don’t ever forget that. They work for you. If they are not…somebody else will do it. I stayed with the same team for years.”
Despite the behind-the-scenes drama, “Empire” achieved significant milestones during its run. The show produced over 100 episodes, with Henson earning a Golden Globe and multiple Emmy nominations for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon. “Empire” remains accessible to viewers through streaming platforms like Hulu and Tubi, allowing new audiences to discover its compelling narratives and unforgettable characters.
Daniels’ experience on “Empire” stands as a stark contrast to his earlier work, highlighting the complexities of navigating the television industry as a creative professional. While the series brought him both accolades and financial rewards, it also served as a powerful reminder of the challenges that come with relinquishing creative control. As Daniels moves forward with new projects, his story underscores the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision, regardless of the medium.
