Two months after "Empire' ended its first season, the show's writers took to Twitter and announced that the Fox drama will return for a second season in September.
Last March, the two-hour finale episode unveiled shocking revelations, including an unexpected arrest and death. A number of intense scenes showed Lucious (Terrence Howard) learning that he was not going to die but rather diagnosed with a persistent yet treatable disorder.
Following the appointment of Jamal (Jussie Smollett) to manage Empire in the future, Andre (Trai Byers) along with Hakeem (Bryshere Gray), Cookie (Taraji Henson) and Anika (Grace Gealey) had a devious plan up their sleeves. Meanwhile, more information about the murder of Bunkie (Antoine McKay) was revealed.
As "Empire' season two airs next month, fans can look forward to scenes that will involve Lucious' revenge.
"He [Lucious] is coming back with a vengeance, and with more power and determination than ever," showrunner Ilene Chaiken teased in a preview clip.
Howard himself also dropped hints about the second season "going to show Lucious' entire life, the tragedy that happens as a child, and the things that turn him into Lucious."
This will involve his activities on the streets while Cookie spent time in jail as well as his life before meeting Cookie.
Lyon's past relationship and friendship will also be featured in flashback scenes for the upcoming season.
As for Jamal taking over the Empire, Chaiken explains that a "gangster heart" is needed to manage Empire and he recognizes Jamal as the young boy who possesses the abilities, disposition and shrewdness to finally take over.
It will be difficult, though, as pointed out by executive producer Danny Strong, who teases challenges ahead for Jamal when it comes to running the company.
"I think that's going to be a struggle for Jamal all throughout the course of the season," he said. "He has finally come to this place with his father, and it appears that to continue that relationship, it may be at the expense of his relationship with his mother."
Concerning his relationship with Cookie, the finale episode might have out a strain on their bond as Jamal was greatly upset when he saw her going against his father and allowing him to get arrested.
Henson previously opened up about the mother-son relationship, saying: "Jamal and Cookie are pretty much not speaking to each other, because Jamal thinks that Cookie betrayed Lucious and the family... But hopefully he will come around and know that his mother is not a snitch."
As for celebrity appearances, the list of guest stars for "Empire' season two will be longer, which will include Pitbull, Mariah Carey, Chris Rock, Kelly Rowland, Marisa Tomei and Ludacris.
"Empire' season two makes its premiere on Sept. 23 on Fox.
