PILOT PICKUPS: Empire, Red Band Society

FOX made two more drama pickups today as they picked up Empire and Red Band Society, meaning they picked up all three dramas in contention.

Empire is a hip hop family drama from Lee Daniels centering on a hip hop superstar played by Terrence Howard. Also starring Taraji P. Henson and featuring music from Timbaland, the show has been a hot pilot. On paper, it seems like something completely different. I can't think of a hip hop family drama ever, much less on network television. Let's hope it brings something new to the table.

Also picked up was Red Band Society starring Octavia Spencer. Set in a hospital ward and focusing on a group of teenagers, the show has been highly regarded just like Empire. It also stars Griffin Gluck and Dave Annable among others.

These drama pickups join already ordered Gotham, Hieroglyph, and Backstrom on the drama side. On the comedy side is Weird Loners, Last Man on Earth, and Mulaney, which just had its episode order upped to 16 from 6. Also in the mix are event series Wayward Pines and Gracepoint, reality show Utopia, and the animated Bordertown. FOX may still order more sitcoms but they also may be done. Stay tuned!

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