Yesterday, Page Six reported that various sources had revealed that Trai Byers wanted off FOX’s hit show Empire, and that producers were willing to let him leave thanks to his diva ways. One source shared, “Trai wants out. He feels that he studied at Yale and he’s a ‘true thespian’ . . . The character is beneath him. He has an idea of himself as being this big Shakespearean actor.”
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Another source added, “At first, being on Empire was major for him. But he feels his character is not as important this season, and he hates not being the star. He thinks he has the acting chops of Taraji and Terrence. He doesn’t get how the show benefits him, and he feels he has way too much talent when he’s not the star by any means.”
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Trai is now squashing those rumors. The actor took to Instagram to ease our minds and assure us that he isn’t going anywhere.
I don’t normally spend my time dispelling rumors, but there is something I’d like to address. I have nothing but love and respect for “Empire” and all who are involved on the show. I have a fabulous relationship with FOX, and hold myself to the highest standards professionally. How could I think of demanding something larger than Andre, where I get to express a man with Bipolar disorder, who is on a spiritual journey to find his identity? I’m so proud, so happy, and so lucky to be a part of this cast. This show has started my career. See you in Season Three!
A photo posted by Trai Byers (@traibyers) on Mar 3, 2016 at 6:06pm PST
