Actor Terrence Howard has expanded his legal battle against his former talent agency, alleging it failed to tell him about lucrative business opportunities tied to the hit television series “Empire” that could have significantly increased his earnings.
Still Suing
According to a new court filing obtained by TMZ, Howard claims his former representatives at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) withheld information about discussions involving an “Empire”-branded fragrance, a potential signature men’s cologne, an appearance on the Home Shopping Network (HSN), and paid promotional events connected to the Fox drama.
The new allegations broaden Howard’s 2023 lawsuit, which originally focused on claims that CAA mishandled salary negotiations during his run as Lucious Lyon on “Empire.”
Howard alleges his agents sought to increase his salary to $750,000 per episode, but Fox reportedly refused to pay more than $325,000 per episode. While those negotiations were taking place, Howard claims fragrance representatives were discussing additional opportunities centered specifically on him, including a $20,000 appearance fee for a product launch, future promotional appearances, an HSN appearance, and the possibility of developing his own signature fragrance.
Howard argues he was never informed of those discussions, forcing him to make decisions about his television contract without what he describes as critical information.
CAA has denied the allegations and is asking the court to dismiss the lawsuit. The agency contends Howard waited too long to bring the claims under the applicable statute of limitations.
The actor also sued 20th Century Fox and Disney in 2020, alleging he was underpaid for the use of his name and likeness on “Empire” merchandise.
Howard’s lawsuit against CAA remains pending.
