Usually, I don't like watching musical TV shows, and I'll admit that after the demise FOX's comedy-drama hit show "Glee," I lost hope in musical television shows.
Shortly during the final season of "Glee" in 2015, screenwriter Lee Daniels introduced "Empire" to viewers. "Empire" initially focuses on a multimillion-dollar recording label with the family fighting for control of the company. After an episode of "American Idol," the pilot episode garnered critical acclaim and receiving nearly 10 million viewers, which would increase throughout the show. The show was praised by fans for actress Taraji P. Henson's portrayal of Cookie Lyon, the ex-convict wife who returns to reclaim her position in the record label.
The series increased in popularity but decreased in viewers 3 seasons later, and it's honestly clear why. As a result, a new series by Lee Daniels, "STAR" was introduced near the end of 2016, starring actress Queen Latifah.
"STAR" focuses on a girl group fighting on the rise to success in the music industry. Although not as popular in ratings, the show has been renewed three times since its first season, including a crossover episode with "Empire."
Similarly, "STAR" and "Empire' include original songs and vocals from actors. In all honesty, "STAR" has developed into a better musical series compared to "Empire," a show that many fans have seemed to distance from.
Here are a few reasons why "Star" is a better show than "Empire" as of now:
1. Relatable characters
in "Empire," we were introduced to an array of characters, including breakout character and mother Cookie Lyon, passing on iconic quotes and sassy demeanor that adds life in the Dynasty-like drama.
But the issue with "Empire" after five seasons is that there's no development or relatable characters, except for Jamal Lyon (Jussie Smollett), introduced as one of the sons who makes a platform for himself as a gay artist. Many characters on the show, who are main characters, have yet to have groundbreaking storylines for viewers to relate to.
In fact, "STAR" is the third series in history to have a transgender actress to portray a major transgender character, like actresses Laverne Cox in "Orange is the New Black" and Jamie Clayton in "Sense8."
Meanwhile, in "STAR," the show focuses on three girls in the group as a whole and individually. From storylines involving foster homes, domestic violence, and sexuality, viewers are able to relate to the characters more.
2. Modern songs
"Empire" is well-known for its original songs. When the show first debuted, the first song of the show, "What Is Love?" caught the media and fans' eyes for being vocally entrancing.
At this time, the songs felt radio-friendly and good for viewers to listen to. The songs were released on numerous soundtracks for the show. However, as the show started to drift away and "STAR" was introduced, fans began comparing the show.
This year, "STAR" made history with a memorable song from its second season, "There For You," written and performed by lead actress Jude Demorest who has written for artists like Fifth Harmony.
The songs are modern and follow trends of today, as the latest songs released on 'Empire' appear very outdated, and lyrically very cliché and not as appealing to the mainstream sound.
3. The storylines
Sure, we were hit with "Empire" storylines that involved LGBTQ acceptance, "Who's the father?" and "Whodunit?" mysteries, and family feuds, but honestly, after that, I can't remember a single storyline on "Empire" that shocked me like the storylines on "STAR."
"STAR" is set in Atlanta, Georgia, where lead character Star, her half-sister Simone (Brittany O'Grady) and daughter of a rock star Alex (Ryan Destiny) relocate to become the next big thing: a girl group. But along with this, "STAR" tackles more storylines that "Empire" hasn't. "STAR" even has a larger approach on the #BlackLivesMatter movement, even local issues in the Atlanta community.
While I'm glad that both shows are on air, I can say that I've spent most of my Wednesdays at 9:00 P.M. watching every episode of "STAR." It honestly makes you forget "Empire" was ever a show.
If you aren't familiar with the shows, catch up on them both on Hulu, and tune in every Wednesday at 9/8c on FOX.
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