A fierce dog is about to rip through The Lyons’ den.
Mega-producer and international recording artist Pitbull will guest star on Season 2 of Fox’s powerhouse hip-hop drama “Empire,” the network announced as part of its TCA Summer TV Press Tour preview.
In the upcoming episode slated to air this fall, Pitbull will play himself and perform track “No Doubt About It” with Jamal Lyon, played by Jussie Smollett. (pictured above, right)
The Pitbull casting news comes just one day after co-creator Lee Daniels announced that legendary Grammy-winning songtress Mariah Carey will also be guest-starring on the series.
Daniels announced the news at Carey’s Hollywood Walk of Fame star dedication on Wednesday, but didn’t elaborate on the singer’s role or if we could expect fireworks between her and Cookie Lyon, portrayed by Emmy-nominated scene stealer Taraji P. Henson.
Representatives for Fox and Carey have not yet returned TheWrap’s request for comment, but an individual with knowledge of the casting said there is no official deal in place yet.
Pitbull joins a growing list of impressive actors and musicians who will also be mixing it up with Lucious Lyon (Terrence Howard) and his clan on Season 2. Chris Rock, Kelly Rowland, Marisa Tomei, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges and Adam Rodriguez have all already signed on for roles on the Fox show.
Pitbull, born Armando Christian Perez, is an internationally successful musician, performer, business entrepreneur, fashion icon and actor.
He has sold more than 6 million albums and 70 million singles worldwide. Pitbull has scored No. 1 hits in more than 15 countries and has amassed 7 billion views on his music videos. The artist’s social media reach matches audiences of some television networks.
This past year, Pitbull wrapped up a co-headlining arena tour of the U.S. and Canada with Enrique Iglesias and finished a headline tour in China. In the fall, Pitbull will head to Las Vegas for a special seven-night engagement at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino’s Axis with “Time of Our Lives,” a unique Vegas show.
“Empire” is produced by Imagine Television in association with 20th Century Fox Television. The series was created by Daniels and Danny Strong. Daniels and Strong also serve as executive producers alongside Brian Grazer, Ilene Chaiken and Francie Calfo.
Empire Season 2 premieres on Fox on September 23.