Why All 'Empire' Fans Need To Start Watching 'Underground' Immediately
"Empire" fans will freak over Jussie Smollet's guest-stint on WGN America's new show "Underground"... just don't expect him to be at all like Jamal Lyon.
We all know and love Jussie Smollett (and obvs. his killer voice) as the level-headed Jamal Lyon on "Empire."
On Wednesday, March 30, Smollett will time-travel back to the 1800s to play a runaway slave on our new favorite show "Underground" on WGN America. *stifles excited screams*
Smollett will play Josey, a runaway who doesn't trust anyone - not even those trying to help. With a secret vendetta against white abolitionist ally John Hawkes, there's sure to be major drama between the two.
But wait, IT GETS BETTER. Smollett will guest-star alongside his equally talented sister, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, who stars as Rosalee.
It's been 20 years since the Smollett siblings teamed up on TV together, so we're especially excited to see these two share the screen again. Better yet, Smollett-Bell promises her brother's stint on "Underground" is one worth tuning in for.
"He really loses himself in this character as a runaway slave. I'm excited for people to see because it's so different from Jamal on 'Empire!'" Smollett-Bell told E! .
And, if you love Cookie Lyon on "Empire" (because who doesn't?), you'll probably be just as obsessed as we are with "Underground"s Ernestine.
Like Cookie, Ernestine is a strong female character who goes to great lengths to protect her children - even if it means self-sacrifice. When learning the plantation owners want to put her young son in the fields, she takes matters into her own hands like a total badass and won our hearts forever (we won't ruin it for you with any spoilers).
The best thing about "Underground" is that the characters aren't seen as slaves, but as people. Ernestine is flawed in a very raw, relatable way. Despite the show's historical backdrop, we can deeply connect with the character's motives and struggles. What we're saying is, this show is SO ADDICTIVE.
Be sure to tune in March 30, when the Smollett duo dominate the screen together! YAASSS.
And check out the entire trailer for "Underground," which airs every Wednesday on WGN America.