We evaluate the unexpected series finale of Empire, which ended two episodes early due to COVID-19 permanently halting production. We discuss off-screen issues that changed the show’s trajectory, including the Jussie Smollett scandal and how creators pieced together two partial episodes to make a conclusion after coronavirus. Though a letdown to longtime fans, we dive into the development of the family dynamic, Lucious and Cookie’s relationship, and the evolution of the series’ music.
