It looks like “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago PD” are going to have some company when they start filming again in Chicago.
Lee Daniels’ hip-hop drama “Empire” has been picked up by Fox and will likely film in Chicago, according to Fox spokesperson Gaude Paez. The New York-based series – which features Oscar-nominated actors Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson and Gabourey Sidibe – filmed its pilot in Chicago in March.
Howard plays a street hustler-turned-record label head named Lucious Lyon and Henson will play his character’s ex-wife, Cookie Lyon, who has just been released from prison after serving 17 years for drug dealing. Sidibe will have a recurring role on the drama, playing Lucious’s assistant.
Daniels directed Howard in 2013’s “The Butler” and Sidibe in 2009’s “Precious.” Danny Strong — who wrote the screenplay for “The Butler” — will write “Empire.” Strong and Daniels will also executive produce the show with Brian Grazer and Francie Calfo. Hip-hop producer Timbaland wrote the music for the pilot.
“I wanted to make a black ‘Dynasty,'” Daniels told the Hollywood Reporter Tuesday. “You sit there and go, ‘No, this (expletive) didn’t! Oh my (expletive) God!'”
lgomez@tribune.com | Twitter @TribLuis
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