Chris Rock Was Originally a Cannibal on 'Empire,' But FOX Wasn't Having Any of That
In a recent interview, Daniels revealed that he initially ignored FOX's requests by filming scenes of Chris Rock with a plate of human body parts.
Just days before the premiere of Empire's ridiculously star-loaded second season, we now have this slightly depressing piece of narrative news: Chris Rock's character was originally meant to be a cannibal, but FOX simply couldn't stomach one of the world's greatest comedians taking a turn as a human-hungry inmate.
Lee Daniels, Empire's fearless leader, and his failed path to a cannibalistic Chris Rock are outlined in great detail in a new Hollywood Reporter cover story:
As for the seemingly endless list of guest stars poised to invade the series this year, Daniels is quick to remove himself from responsibility, placing the burden of the entire decision squarely on FOX's shoulders. "You think we wanted the names? No, it was [FOX] that wanted them," Daniels reveals. "Don't get it twisted." Daniels also defends star Terrence Howard, whose off-camera troubles have been claimed to have impacted Lucious Lyon's narrative. "That poor boy," says Daniels. "[Terrence] ain't done nothing different than Marlon Brando or Sean Penn, and all of a sudden he's some fuckin' demon. That's a sign of the time, of race, of where we are right now in America."
Empire returns to FOX on September 23.
