Empire kicks off season four! next month. Here’s what you need to know!

Empire is moving to 8 p.m. But don’t worry, Empire won’t soften its edge just because it’s on 60 minutes earlier. “Empire is going to be Empire, and our fans are going to follow,” the cast and crew stressed during their press panel.

Jussie┬áSmollett is taking on a new role! Jussie won’t be sharing any of his own music, but he will be directing this season. And speaking of special episodes, there’s a Prince episode coming!

Taraji P. Henson and Jussie are ready to take their social media comedy to the silver screen. If you follow either of their social┬ámedia accounts, you know they bring the funny. “She’s one of the funniest people alive,” Jussie shared. “Our funny stuff is never planned. It’s just stupid stuff that happens.” And Taraji jumped in that a comedy special “is a no brainer ┬á- come on Fox.” We are so ready for that!

Guest stars are returning, but... Taye Diggs is coming back. So is Demi Moore and Phylicia Rashad. But series creator and executive producer Lee Daniels pointed out that when they have too many guest stars – like in season two – they lose their fans, and they heard your disdain. “They tune in for the family, to watch the Lyons and who they are. So we focus really more on our family, and that’s a safe bet.”

And yes, they are listening to you – their fans. Lee says they┬áare well aware of the fans – what they like and what they dislike, and they do take note. Jussie admitted that he’s not only a cast member of the show, “but truly a fan,” so he can understand our outspoken passion.

Now to Star…

Star is coming to Empire. While creator Lee Daniels always saw Star and Empire as their own separate entities, “it sort of seemed logical,” for the two-hour crossover premiere event kicking off both show’s season openers. Of course, Queen Latifah retorted, “I always saw us crossing over, from day one! “Benjamin Bratt added that their connection is that everyone comes from struggle, and with hard work and determination, they can achieve their goals. (Watch the crossover video; it’s awesome!)

Fosse, Fosse! Look for an upcoming number of the Star girls dancing their newest single in iconic choreographer Bob Fosse fashion. Lee Daniels (who makes a cameo in the segment) says this platform is a great opportunity to bring these forms of art to an audience who may be unfamiliar.

Don’t worry, the show isn’t shying away from social issues.┬áExecutive producer Karen Gist shared that exploring social issues, such as incarceration reform, domestic violence and others are at the core of the show’s DNA. “That is a thrust. … We want to continue to throw whatever we can and to hold the mirror up … that’s what this show does.”

But let’s have some fun too. Expect a love triangle to pop up with a new character.

Star, season two, begins Sept. 27 at 9 p.m.