Empire fans got a bit of a scare this week when a rumor that actor Trai Byers wanted to leave Empire. NY Post‘s Page Six reported that Byers, who plays Andre Lyon, was exhibiting “diva” behavior, and was upset that Andre wasn’t getting much screentime. Like Andre, Byers is an Ivy League-educated actor. “He feels that he studied at Yale and he’s a ‘true thespian,” a source told Page Six. “At first, being on ‘Empire’ was major for him. But he feels his character is not as important this season, and he hates not being the star.”
I don’t normally spend my time dispelling rumors, but there is something I’d like to address. I have nothing but love and respect for “Empire” and all who are involved on the show. I have a fabulous relationship with FOX, and hold myself to the highest standards professionally. How could I think of demanding something larger than Andre, where I get to express a man with Bipolar disorder, who is on a spiritual journey to find his identity? I’m so proud, so happy, and so lucky to be a part of this cast. This show has started my career. See you in Season Three!A photo posted by Trai Byers (@traibyers) on Mar 3, 2016 at 6:06pm PST
I don’t normally spend my time dispelling rumors, but there is something I’d like to address. I have nothing but love and respect for “Empire” and all who are involved on the show. I have a fabulous relationship with FOX, and hold myself to the highest standards professionally. How could I think of demanding something larger than Andre, where I get to express a man with Bipolar disorder, who is on a spiritual journey to find his identity? I’m so proud, so happy, and so lucky to be a part of this cast. This show has started my career. See you in Season Three!
Byers is engaged to Empire co-star Grace Gealey. So rest assured, Andre Lyon is here to stay for the rest of Season 2 and we’ll see him in Season 3! Whew.