Empire Series Finale: A Dramatic Conclusion To The Iconic Show

Empire was never a show that was short on drama, but the Fox series' finale managed to get two episodes worth of action into one. After production was forced to close in response to the novel coronavirus pandemic, the decision was made to bring together what had already been filmed for the third- and second-to-last episodes of the series and turn it into the last episode. Though cast and crew are holding out hope that they will one day shoot a real finale for the series, for now, fans are left with Season 6, Episode 18, as the end of Empire.

As viewers tuned in for the final episode, titled "Home is On The Way," they were greeted with intense moments that ultimately led to the demise of two beloved characters. This finale was a culmination of the show's ongoing themes of love, betrayal, and the struggle for power within the Lyon family. Fans were eager to see how the intricate storylines would wrap up, especially the long-awaited reunion of Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) and Lucious (Terrence Howard).

The episode opened with Cookie and Lucious teaming up to regain control of their music empire by firing Pamplemousse employees Kelly (Pej Vahdat) and Giselle (Nicole Ari Parker). This decision was driven by a series of events that led to a power struggle exacerbated by Andre Lyons' (Trai Byers) breakdown following his separation from his family. The emotional stakes were high, and the intensity of the relationships portrayed kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

What Happened at the End of Empire?

By the closing minutes of the Empire series finale, fans had witnessed heart-wrenching moments, including the deaths of two significant characters. Cookie and Lucious's reunion was the emotional highlight, showcasing their complicated yet profound connection. Their partnership was not just personal but also a strategic move to reclaim their family's legacy in the music industry.

The reunion was not without its challenges. As they worked together, Cookie and Lucious faced opposition from Kelly and Giselle, who had seized power while the Lyons were distracted by personal struggles. The tension between the characters built throughout the episode, culminating in dramatic confrontations that reflected the show's trademark style.

In one particularly poignant moment, Lucious, who had plans to become a missionary in South America, ultimately chose to stay and reconnect with his son, Hakeem (Bryshere Y. Gray). This decision highlighted the importance of family and the sacrifices one makes for love, a recurring theme in the series. However, the absence of certain scenes due to production constraints left some storylines unresolved, leaving fans yearning for more.

Key Moments and Emotional Farewells

The series finale was filled with flashbacks and emotional revelations, reinforcing the idea that despite their flaws, Lucious and Cookie were destined to be together. However, the show also took a darker turn with the elimination of Lucious's young musical protege, Yana (Kiandra Richardson). Her departure from the storyline was indicative of the show's willingness to tackle serious themes and deliver shocking twists.

Yana's realization that Lucious's heart belonged to Cookie led to a bittersweet breakup, but the encounter was misinterpreted by Yana's father, Damon (Wood Harris). This misunderstanding resulted in tragic consequences, as Damon, in a fit of rage, accidentally shot his own daughter instead of Lucious. Such dramatic turns of events kept the audience engaged and underscored the high stakes involved.

After the chaos, Lucious took drastic measures to protect his family, leading to a climactic confrontation with Damon. The fight was symbolic of the battles fought throughout the series—not just for power, but for love and family. In the end, the show concluded with the Lyon family gathering for a screening of "Birth of an Empire," leaving fans with a sense of closure, albeit bittersweet without Jamal (Jussie Smollett) present.

Reflections on a Cultural Phenomenon

The finale of Empire was not just a conclusion to the story but a reflection of its cultural impact over the years. The series opened doors for conversations about race, family dynamics, and the complexities of the music industry. Its legacy will be remembered for its groundbreaking approach to storytelling and representation.

As fans look back on the series, they can appreciate the character arcs, the relentless pursuit of dreams, and the intricate relationships that made Empire a beloved show. While the finale may have left some questions unanswered, it also solidified the show's place in television history as a powerful narrative about ambition, love, and the enduring bonds of family.

In summary, the finale of Empire served as a fitting tribute to the series, encapsulating its drama, emotion, and unforgettable characters. While the future remains uncertain for the franchise, the impact of Empire will undoubtedly resonate with audiences for years to come.