Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Empire centers on the dysfunctional family of a successful music mogul who's preparing for one of his sons to take over the business. His middle son is gay and in a steady, loving relationship, and his sexuality -- and his father's problem with it -- is a major story line, so you'll hear homophobic slurs such as "faggot" and "sissy" along with other audible language such as "ass," "bitch," and so on. Several characters drink and use drugs, and some have sold drugs in the past. Violent content includes beatings and shootings with some blood, although it isn't gratuitous, while sex is implied but with nothing more than making out shown on-screen.

Sexual Content

Characters kiss and make out, and sex is suggested but not shown; some shots of lingerie and other skimpy clothing; one of the main characters is gay and in a healthy relationship but struggles to gain acceptance from his father.

Violence

Beatings, shootings, with some blood; more is suggested than shown.

Language

Audible words include "damn," "ass," and "bitch," plus some homophobic slurs such as "faggot" and "sissy."

Social Behavior

Although the overarching themes include fame, corruption, and revenge, there's a sense of balance in the other themes explored -- for example, looking at both homophobia and acceptance, ambition and cooperation, and deceit and honesty.

Consumerism

Sponsorship/promotional tie-ins with Pepsi, Lincoln, and other brands.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Social drinking with some cigarette smoking; secondary characters use drugs, and several main characters sold drugs in the past; visible drug paraphernalia.