If you're like us, you were hooked on the first season of Empire. Who can forget Hakeem rapping on songs like "Drip Drop"? There's good news surrounding the hip-hopera today because it will return for a second season. In addition, artists like Alicia Keys and Lenny Kravitz and comedian Chris Rock will be making guest appearances.

FOX TV chairman and CEO Dana Walden made the announcement during the network's Upfronts presentation on Monday (May 11). There are no details yet on how Keys, Rock and Kravitz will be introduced into the show's storyline, which means we'll be left making up our own scenarios until then.

Past guest stars have included the likes of Snoop Dogg, Gladys Knight, Estelle and Mary J. Blige. Although this announcement features some great, well-known talent, there could be more stars added to season 2's cast. Producers have previously suggested that Oprah and Common may also guest star in the upcoming season, Entertainment  Weekly reports. However, neither party has confirmed their appearance on the show.

You're in for a treat with the upcoming season because you'll be glued to your TV screen a little longer. Instead of the 12 episodes that first season offered this year, the second season will be comprised of 18. In addition, the show will return in the fall as opposed to waiting until next spring and the second half of episodes will air in 2016.

And even though the first season is over, you can still catch Empire stars Jussie Smollett and Bryshere “Yazz” Gray join Estelle onstage at the 2015 Billboard Music Awards to perform "Conqueror," which was featured on the show. You can see that performance on ABC Sunday (May 17).

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