Terrence Howard Claims Former Agents Cost Him HSN Deal

Terrence Howard is escalating his legal battle with former talent agency CAA, accusing them of hiding a potential deal that could have made him a star on the Home Shopping Network. The actor claims his agents failed to inform him about an opportunity to launch his own signature fragrance tied to the series "Empire," which included a $20,000 payday for a launch event, future paid appearances, and a possible men's fragrance line.

In a new declaration filed in court, Terrence Howard alleges that CAA did not relay an offer from fragrance representatives connected to "Empire." The deal would have involved an HSN appearance and a potential signature fragrance venture, but Howard says he was never told. As a result, he had to make a decision on his contract without full knowledge of the opportunities.

Howard previously sued CAA for mishandling his salary negotiations for "Empire," where he played Lucious Lyon for six seasons. He claimed the agency requested $750,000 per episode from FOX, but the network refused to go above $325,000. Now, he adds that the undisclosed fragrance deal could have changed his career trajectory.

The legal dispute between the actor and the agency has been ongoing for years. Howard insists that CAA failed to represent his best interests, while the agency denies any wrongdoing. CAA is seeking to have the case dismissed, arguing that Howard's claims are barred by the statute of limitations.

Industry observers note that if Howard's allegations are proven, it could set a precedent for how talent agencies disclose commercial opportunities. For now, the actor is seeking compensation for lost earnings, and the court will decide whether the case proceeds.