Ep 9. Lee Daniels

In season 1, episode 9 of Breaking Big, viewers follow the remarkable journey of Lee Daniels, a renowned film and television producer, and the mastermind behind some of Hollywood's biggest hits. From his humble beginnings in Philadelphia to his breakthrough in the entertainment industry, Daniels shares his experiences, challenges, and vision for storytelling that has captivated audiences worldwide.

The episode begins with Daniels discussing his childhood and the hardships he endured growing up in poverty. Despite facing adversity, he reveals how his parents instilled in him a strong work ethic, which helped him pursue his dreams. Daniels reveals how he drew inspiration from his life experiences, weaving them into the narratives of his films and TV shows.

The episode delves into Daniels' early career, where he worked as a casting director and manager in New York City, which sparked his interest in creative storytelling. He shares how he got his first big break, writing and directing the critically acclaimed film "Shadowboxer," which brought him critical acclaim and launched his career in Hollywood.

Viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Daniels' iconic hit TV series, "Empire." Daniels talks about how he conceptualized the show, and how he drew from his own experiences to create the show's characters and plotlines. He shares his vision for the series, which he describes as "the black 'Dynasty,'" and the challenges he faced in creating a show that tackled issues of race, class, and sexuality.

Throughout the episode, Daniels emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood and how he strives to create opportunities for marginalized communities. He shares his beliefs about the transformative power of storytelling, and how he aims to use his platform to amplify voices often unheard in mainstream media.

The episode also highlights Daniels' philanthropic efforts, including his work as an advocate for gender and LGBTQ+ rights. He discusses his foundation, The Lee Daniels Entertainment Foundation, which provides scholarships and opportunities for young artists, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

Towards the end of the episode, Daniels reflects on his journey and the lessons he has learned along the way. He shares his advice for aspiring artists and encourages them to stay true to themselves and their vision. He also reflects on his experiences as a gay man in Hollywood and how he continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes through his work.

Breaking Big season 1, episode 9, provides an insightful and inspiring look into the life and work of Lee Daniels, one of Hollywood's most influential and groundbreaking storytellers. Through his personal story, Daniels inspires viewers to pursue their dreams and create meaningful and impactful art that can bring light and change to the world.