Friday, March 29, 2024

RECAP: Empire (S3, Ep1) Light In Darkness

Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson in "Empire" (S3, Ep1)
Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson in “Empire” (S3, Ep1)

*When last we saw the Lyon gang, Hakeem had gotten jilted at the altar; Andre’s wife, Rhonda, had figured out that Anika was the one who caused her miscarriage by pushing her down the stairs; and Lucious married the pregnant Anika for a pair of reasons. One, she told him she was having a boy. And two, as his wife, she wouldn’t be able to testify against him.

Thankfully, these scenarios, were a lot less far-fetched than all of that hot mess Lee Daniels, Danny Strong and Ilene Chaiken served up in Season 2. And because of that, “Empire’s” junior season started off on a much higher note than its sophomore effort.

The Lyon dynasty dynamics were a lot more nuanced in the season opener—mostly because they were more believable. And, it also helps that producers wisely used Leslie Uggams—Lucious’ long-dead mother who was resurrected last season when her grandson Andre found her in a mental institution. The chemistry between Uggams and Terrence Howard (Lucious) is divine and helps add some depth to this often over-the-top prime time soap.

There were some great plot twists last night though. Lucious reconnects with his long-lost half-brother who is now a federal agent trying to build a case against his nefarious sibling. We found out that even though Jamal, who was shot last season by Freda is looking as yummy as ever, he’s suffering from PTSD and can no longer perform. Anika’s lie is revealed when she gives birth to a girl and the look on Lucious’ face is a true indication that this marriage is already in trouble.

Yazz Gray (Hakeem) still needs to hone his acting skills, but it should be interesting to see what develops between he and his dad when it comes to raising the biological child he had with Anika. As always, Cookie, was entertaining. Look for Taraji P. Henson to add more depth to the character, who is finding it difficult to accept her ex-husband’s new marriage.

The most profoundly affecting performance, however, came from Trai Byers as a grieving Andre denounced his faith after his wife’s sudden death. Spoiler alert: Girlfriend took a dive off the top of a building with a little help from Hakeem’s baby mama.

As usual, “Empire” packed its premiere episode with some useless cameos. Birdman made an appearance to discuss a business deal with Lucious. This must mean that Toni Braxton can’t be far behind, right? “Empire’s” cameos are often like the relative who shows up to the family wedding or funeral just to say they came.

Predictions: Jamal will meet up with a new man that will help him get over his stage fright. Hakeem will fall in love with an old boo, who will trap him into a loveless marriage and drain his bank account. Andre will join a cult. Lucious will kick it with underused and underappreciate Becky (Gabourey Sidibe) when she threatens to leave for another gig. And Cookie, will have both her sisters whacked for just being whack.

Miki Turner is a full time lecturer at USC’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, and author of the book Journey to the Woman I’ve Come to Love
Miki Turner is a full time lecturer at USC’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, and author of the book Journey to the Woman I’ve Come to Love

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