That's the Way the Cookie Rumbles: Mo'Nique v. Taraji as Empire's Cookie Lyon

Mo'Nique says she was originally offered the role of Lyon matriarch Cookie, brilliantly portrayed by national treasure Taraji P. Henson, on Fox's Empire. That, for the record, would've been epic. Like, the earth opening up and swallowing all rival networks' entire spring lineups epic. But after Taraji, can you really imagine anyone else as the fur-wearing, broom-toting, always scheming musical genius? Let's take a look at how Mo might've handled things had she been given the keys to the Empire.

On Fashion

Cookie always comes correct, whether it's getting out of prison, shading Naomi Campbell, or a late night rendezvous.

Just throw Mo in a high ponytail and a cat-eye and get the hell out of her way.

On Motherhood

An iron fist in a velvet glove, Cookie's approach to discipline may raise a few eyebrows.

But at least she's not raising a TV and throwing it at Hakeem's head. Yet. Season's not over.

On Keeping It Sexy

Taraji was serving you body in this negligee.

But Mo was giving life in this bodysuit.

On Music

A large part of the reason Cookie is able to stomp around like she owns the place is her musical acumen, which helped launch the Lyon empire.

But Mo's no hip hop novice, lest we forget the cinematic classic, Soul Plane, starring future Empire guest, Snoop Dogg. It all comes full circle. Go Shaniece!

On Keeping It Real

Cookie was in the clink for 17 years and so her edges aren't as refined as, say, her ex-husband Lucious' new lady, Anika.

If anything, Mo'Nique keeps it too real, which may have led to rumors that she's difficult to work with. But considering what could've been, one can't help but wonder if it all could've been worth it.

Les Brathwaite, based on the novel Push by Sapphire.