'Empire' Strikes Back: All the Token White People

Fox’s hit series Empire refreshingly flipped the traditional TV script by featuring a predominantly black cast and placing white actors in throwaway roles. And we’re not just talking about poor Rhonda. Whether it was a random notary public, a dude who happens to pipe up during Cookie’s speech at the shareholders meeting, or an angry bagel lady at a photo shoot, the white people of Empire served many vital but fleeting roles. Now that Season 1 is over, we’re really looking forward to how Empire will use white actors and actresses in Season 2. As a hysterical fan at one of Jamal’s record signings, perhaps? A (spoiler alert!) cellmate for Lucious? A nail technician who has the honor of silently giving Cookie a manicure? Who knows — and we can’t wait to find out. In the meantime, here’s a brief tribute to the drama’s brilliant use of token white folks in Season 1. Enjoy.