5 Interesting Facts About 'Empire' Season 2 Actress Taraji P. Henson On Fox!

Actor Taraji P. Henson who plays music industry mom and mogul, Cookie Lyons on Fox is one of the television network's recognized women on the screen. Perhaps one of the reasons why the networks ratings has increased, the show embodies good music, makes fashion statements and intriguing plots. Each episode ends with fans taking to social media to discuss all aspects of the show, especially the characters.

 
MStars News reveals five facts about Taraji that are interesting and could provide a little insight on the actress and why she has withstood Hollywood, taking roles that allow her show a little diversity.

1. The Examiner reported that the actress became a single mom to son Marcel Johnson when his father was murdered. She worked extra jobs while acting in theater and at the same time, continued college which eventually left to her obtaining her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree from Howard University.

2. Here first television role was as a 16-year old on an episode of Parent 'Hood,' when she was actually 26-years-old.

3. Believe it or not, the Hustle & Flow star's nickname in college was Cookie, just like the character that she portrays on Empire.

4. According to The Urban Daily, Henson is an animal rights activist and said, "I don't think a living being should suffer for the sake of fashion, period. End of story...You don't have to kill an animal just because you want to be hot and fly. And I really stand by that."

5. Moviefone reminded fans that the woman behind the character Cookie also starred in Persons of Interest and Think Like A Man Too.

From period pieces like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button to present day entertainment stories, Henson has proven to Hollywood that she is a talent to be considered.