Ep 2. The Outspoken King

The second episode of the first season of Empire is titled "The Outspoken King". In this episode, the viewers see Lucious Lyon (Terrence Howard) continuing to try and find the perfect successor for his music empire. Lucious already has three sons, each of whom he thinks could take over, but he isn't quite satisfied with any of them.

Andre (Trai Byers), the oldest son, has the education and business sense, but isn't quite as talented in music as his younger brothers. Jamal (Jussie Smollett), the middle son, has incredible musical talent, but has struggled with the homophobia in the music industry and his father's unwillingness to accept his sexuality. Hakeem (Bryshere Y. Gray), the youngest son, has the most potential for a star, but is still immature and reckless.

While Lucious is trying to navigate his familial relationships and decide who should inherit his empire, he is faced with some other challenges. A rapper on his record label, Kidd Fo-Fo, has caused controversy by releasing a song that is seen as promoting violence against the police. Lucious must decide whether to stand by his artist or to distance himself from the controversy.

Meanwhile, Cookie (Taraji P. Henson), Lucious's ex-wife who has just been released from prison, is also vying for a stake in the empire. She is determined to make her mark and get her rightful share of the company she helped to start before she went to jail.

In "The Outspoken King," viewers see Lucious juggling all of these challenges and trying to come out on top. He is a complex character, sometimes cruel and manipulative, but also vulnerable and sympathetic. He is a man who has worked hard to get to where he is, but is also haunted by the secrets of his past.

The episode is full of musical performances, as Lucious's sons and artists on his label all showcase their talents. The tension between Lucious and his family is palpable, as they all try to prove themselves worthy of his attention and praise.

Overall, "The Outspoken King" is a dynamic episode that sets up the rest of the season. It introduces the characters and their personalities, while also laying out the overarching conflicts that will drive the plot forward. The viewers are left wondering who will come out on top in this battle for power and success.