Trai Byers dispel's 'Empire' departure rumors: 'So lucky to be a part of this cast'

LOS ANGELES, March 4 (UPI) -- Trai Byers has taken to social media deny rumors that was planning on departing Fox's hit music drama Empire.

"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, the actor wrote on Instagram Thursday alongside a photo of himself.

"I have a fabulous relationship with Fox, and hold myself to the highest standards professionally. 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?" he continued discussing his character.

"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!"

Byers spoke out following reports that he was seeking an early departure from the series due to his frustrations with his character and the show's content.

"Trai wants out," Page Six reported citing multiple sources. "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."

Byers portrays Andre on Empire, the son of main characters Lucious, played by Terrence Howard, and Cookie, played by Taraji P. Henson.

Empire returns for the second half of Season 2 on March 30.