Trai Byers has "nothing but love and respect" for 'Empire'.
Trai Byers
The 32-year-old actor - who plays Andre, the son of Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson's characters Lucious and Cookie Lyon - has dismissed claims he wants to leave the musical drama series because he adores working on the show.
He posted on Instagram: "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."
And Trai - who is engaged to his co-star Grace Gealey - is incredibly "proud" to portray troubled executive Andre and has reassured fans he isn't going anywhere.
He added: "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!"
It was recently claimed Trai wants to be a "big Shakespearean actor".
A source said: "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.
"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."
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