Watch the Trailer for Season 2 of 'Empire'

The “Empire” strikes back. Fox’s breakout hit returns for a second season on Wednesday, Sept. 23, and the first trailer has just hit the net. Season 2 promises just as many twists and turns as last season. More in fact, because this time the show will be expanded to 18 episodes, from 12 last season.

The 30-second clip teases the drama in store—Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) in a cage, and then visiting Lucious (Terrence Howard) in jail (#FreeLucious). In the new season, the gang will be joined by several new characters, including Andre Royo—who you may remember from his star-making role as Bubbles on “The Wire”—playing a character named Thirsty Rawlings. He’s a brilliant lawyer who catches the eye of Lucious, despite his “dark secrets.”

Royo isn’t the only new member—Kelly Rowland will appear as Lucious’ mother (in flashbacks, of course) while Marisa Tomei will play the role of an enterprising billionaire.

Other guest stars confirmed for the upcoming season of Lee Daniels’ TV series include Alicia Keys, Chris Rock, Lenny Kravitz, Adam Rodriguez, and Ludacris, who shared a photo from the set.