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Lee Daniels Used to Shoplift From Saks

Lee Daniels.
Lee Daniels. Photo: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

The cast and creator of ratings (and cultural) juggernaut Empire assembled at Saks Fifth Avenue’s flagship store in New York City last night to celebrate the launch of an exclusive collection of pieces inspired by the show from Alexis Bittar, Cushnie Et Ochs, Jimmy Choo, and MCM. The show’s mastermind, Lee Daniels, who arrived in “kangaroo-lined limited-edition Gucci slippers,” jokingly spoke of his past relationship with the store.

“When I was a kid, I used to boost — boosting is stealing. My sister and I, who Cookie is based on, used to go to Saks and we’d boost,” noted the 55-year-old Academy Award–nominated director. “We’re keeping it real right now; it’s Empire time.” If it took a little boosting to give us the gift of our queen Cookie, we’re sure Saks can forgive and forget.

Lee Daniels Used to Shoplift From Saks