Could this be the end for Fox’s highly anticipated “Empire?”
According to representatives of Philly-based entertainment executive, Steven Gordon, the upcoming musical drama, slated to premiere Jan. 7, is based “whole or in part” on Gordon’s independently financed and produced film, Must Be the Music. Gordon’s legal team, Browning Legal Group, has issued an “Order to Cease and Desist” against Fox, Imagine Television, creator and executive producer Lee Daniels, and executive producers Bryan Grazer, Danny Strong, and Francie Calfo, citing “irreparable harm and damage to the viability of his project.”
“The advent of “Empire” starring Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson and produced and directed by the awarding winning director, Lee Daniels, another Philadelphia native, will adversely affect all potential income streams available to Gordon’s project including any pending distribution opportunities.” Gordon’s rep said in a brief press release.
“It’s always wonderful when the public gravitates to and appreciates your efforts. In this case, powerful filmmakers such as Lee Daniels have noticed my hard work but not as I would have wanted them to,” says Gordon. “This is a winning idea and I have more to offer,” he continued.
Although Fox has yet to respond, they may want to do some damage control if they want to see this project get off the ground.
