The Empire that is EMPIRE.

The "Empire" season 2 cast featuring Bryshere Gray as Hakeem Lyon, Jussie Smollett as Jamal Lyon, Trai Byers as Andre Lyon, Grace Gealey as Anika, Kaitlin Doubleday as Rhonda Lyon, Gabourey Sidibe as Becky, Terrence Howard as Lucious Lyon, Taraji P. Henson as Cookie Lyon and Ta'Rhonda Jones as Porsha. 

James Dimmock/FOX

The show EMPIRE returned to television screens this week. The season premiere was a very star studded episode. Cameos were made by:  Rev. Al Sharpton, Chris Rock, Don Lemon, Marisa Tomei, and more.

Quickly, we were engulfed by the #FREELUCIOUS movement, and even given the grand tour of Mr. Lyon's life behind Bars.

(Photo: Chuck Hodes, FOX)

We watched a Stressed Out Jamal make his rounds as head of the Label, only to find out that he is over worked and in need of some studio time.

(Photo: Chuck Hodes, FOX)

 Everyones favorite Cookie Lyon returns just as scandalous and feisty as ever as she attempts undermine Lucious and take over the LYON empire.

(Photo: Chuck Hodes, FOX)

All this and more had about 16.2 million viewers tuned in!  It is safe to say it was a success and lived up to the Hype.

Will you be tuning in Next Week?

(GIF: Fox.com)

The next episode airs on FOX next Wednesday September 30th at 9pm eastern.

For the latest on the Show EMPIRE head over to FOX now!