Current Status of Empire New Seasons
Empire concluded its six-season run on Fox in 2020, so there is no active new season in production or currently airing as of 2026. When viewers ask when the new season of Empire will start, the answer is that the series has not been renewed beyond its original finale. In this status clarifier, we explain the show’s concluded timeline, contextualize the absence of new episodes, and outline how you can monitor official announcements if a revival or reboot is ever announced.
Original Run and Series Conclusion
Empire premiered in 2015 and established itself as a top-rated primetime soap centered on music, family, and power. Its sixth and final season aired in 2019–2020, culminating in a series finale in April 2020. Because the show has not been revived, scheduled, or officially greenlit beyond that point, there is no confirmed new season start date.
Final Season Air Dates
| Season | Season Premiere | Season Finale | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | January 7, 2015 | March 18, 2015 | Concluded |
| Season 2 | September 23, 2015 | March 23, 2016 | Concluded |
| Season 3 | September 21, 2016 | June 28, 2017 | Concluded |
| Season 4 | September 27, 2017 | May 9, 2018 | Concluded |
| Season 5 | March 1, 2019 | May 17, 2019 | Concluded |
| Season 6 | March 4, 2020 | April 21, 2020 | Concluded |
Renewal and Revival Possibilities
As of 2026, there have been no official renewal announcements for another season of Empire. Past rumors of revivals or reboots have not materialized into confirmed plans. For any future season to move forward, the rights holders and production partners would need to announce a greenlight, which would include cast and crew updates, filming timelines, and network or platform commitments.
What a Revival Would Require
- Official announcement from Fox or an announced partner platform.
- Cast agreements, including lead actors such as Taraji P. Henson, Terrence Howard, and other principal cast members.
- Production schedule, pilot or full-season order, and premiere or release window.
How to Track Official News
To monitor potential updates about a new season of Empire, rely on verified announcements from official channels rather than speculative reporting. Early announcements typically include network press releases, showrunner confirmations, or talent casting news.
Trusted Sources and Notification Methods
| Source | What to Expect | Verification Level |
|---|---|---|
| Official network press releases (Fox) | Formal renewal or revival announcements | High (Official) |
| Showrunner or executive producer statements | Development updates if in early stages | Medium to High |
| Major entertainment news outlets with on-the-record sources | Reporting based on credible industry contacts | Medium |
| Social media accounts of cast and producers | Teasers or hints, not formal announcements | Low to Medium |
What to Do While Waiting for News
Fans eager for new episodes can explore the existing catalog, revisit character arcs, and follow cast projects. Staying engaged with official channels helps avoid misinformation and ensures you receive accurate updates if a new season is ever greenlit.
Recommended Actions for Fans
- Follow the official social media accounts associated with the show (when active).
- Bookmark trusted entertainment news sites for verified reporting.
- Set alerts for keywords like “Empire renewal” or “Empire season 7” to filter rumors from announcements.
Common Questions About Empire’s Future
When does the new season of Empire start? As of now, there is no new season scheduled. Was there ever a confirmed revival? No official revival has been announced. Where can I get updates? Monitor trusted entertainment outlets and official show channels for verified information.