Jussie Smollett, once a rising star in Hollywood, became a household name for his role on the hit show Empire. However, in 2019, he made headlines for a different reason: an alleged staged hate crime that led to legal battles, public scrutiny, and a major shift in his career. Since then, many have been wondering, what is Jussie Smollett doing now? This article takes a closer look at Smollett’s current activities, his legal journey, and his career trajectory.
Jussie Smollett’s Career Before the Incident
Jussie Smollett began his career at a young age, appearing in commercials and TV shows. However, it wasn’t until his role as Jamal Lyon on Empire that he truly rose to fame. His portrayal of a talented, gay musician battling personal and professional struggles resonated with many viewers, earning him critical acclaim.
Early Career Highlights
- Commercial Success: Smollett appeared in various commercials, gaining experience in front of the camera.
- Film Appearances: He also had roles in films such as The Mighty Ducks and North.
- Breakthrough Role: His role in Empire was a turning point in his career, making him a star.
The Controversy: 2019 Hate Crime Allegation
In January 2019, Jussie Smollett reported being the victim of a hate crime in Chicago, claiming that two men had attacked him while shouting racial and homophobic slurs. However, the story quickly unraveled as law enforcement began to suspect that Smollett had orchestrated the attack himself. He was later charged with filing a false police report.
Legal Proceedings and Public Reaction
The case drew significant media attention, and Smollett was eventually charged with disorderly conduct. Although he maintained his innocence, many in the public and entertainment industry distanced themselves from him. The controversy led to his character being written out of the final season of Empire.
| Key Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2019 | Smollett reports the attack |
| February 2019 | He is charged with filing a false report |
| March 2019 | Charges are dropped |
| February 2020 | New charges filed |
What is Jussie Smollett Doing Now?
Since the 2019 incident, Smollett’s career has taken a different path. While he’s no longer a regular presence in mainstream Hollywood, he’s remained active in various creative endeavors.
Independent Film and Directing
In 2021, Smollett made his directorial debut with the independent film B-Boy Blues, a project based on the novel by James Earl Hardy. The film, which tells the story of a same-sex relationship in New York City, was well-received at several film festivals.
Continued Activism
Despite the controversy, Smollett has remained involved in activism, particularly in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality. He continues to use his platform to speak out on social justice issues, although his public appearances are more low-key compared to his pre-2019 profile.
| Current Activities | Details |
|---|---|
| Independent Film Direction | Directed B-Boy Blues (2021) |
| Social Justice Advocacy | Focuses on LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality |
| Music Projects | Occasional musical releases and performances |
Jussie Smollett’s Impact on LGBTQ+ Representation
Smollett’s portrayal of Jamal Lyon on Empire was groundbreaking in terms of LGBTQ+ representation on television. As one of the few openly gay black men in a lead role on a major TV show, he became a role model for many young people struggling with their identity.
The Importance of Jamal Lyon’s Character
Jamal Lyon was not just another character; he was a symbol of strength for many viewers. His struggles with acceptance within his family mirrored the experiences of many LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly people of color. This representation had a lasting impact, even after Smollett’s departure from the show.
Jussie Smollett’s Future in Hollywood
The question remains: what does the future hold for Jussie Smollett in Hollywood? While his mainstream acting career may be on hold, Smollett has shown that he is determined to continue creating and contributing to the arts, even if on a smaller scale.
Could Smollett Make a Comeback?
It’s difficult to say whether Smollett will return to mainstream television or film. However, Hollywood has seen comebacks from other actors who have faced public controversy. If Smollett continues to focus on his creative projects and advocacy work, it’s possible that he could regain public favor in the future.
Jussie Smollett’s Career Timeline
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1992 | Appears in The Mighty Ducks |
| 2015 | Lands role on Empire |
| 2019 | Reports alleged hate crime |
| 2021 | Directs B-Boy Blues |
| 2022 | Sentenced to 150 days in jail |
Conclusion
So, what is Jussie Smollett doing now? While the controversy surrounding him has significantly impacted his career, Smollett has found a new path in independent filmmaking, music, and activism. Although he may not be in the Hollywood spotlight, his contributions to the arts and his advocacy for social justice continue to shape his legacy. Whether or not Smollett makes a full comeback in the entertainment industry, his impact on representation and LGBTQ+ rights remains undeniable.
Smollett’s story is one of both triumph and tragedy, marked by personal challenges and public controversy. His future in Hollywood remains uncertain, but his determination to continue his creative work speaks to his resilience.
By focusing on projects that reflect his personal values and experiences, Smollett has carved out a new niche for himself, one that may yet lead to greater opportunities.
FAQs: What is Jussie Smollett Doing Now?
What Projects is Jussie Smollett Working on Currently?
After the controversy, Jussie Smollett shifted his focus toward independent projects. In 2021, he directed the film B-Boy Blues, which received positive feedback at several film festivals. He is also involved in music and social justice work, particularly in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality.
Has Jussie Smollett Returned to Acting?
As of now, Jussie Smollett has not returned to acting in major television or film projects. However, he remains active in the entertainment industry through directing and producing, particularly in the independent film circuit.
Is Jussie Smollett Still Facing Legal Issues?
Jussie Smollett faced a series of legal challenges after the 2019 incident. While the initial charges were dropped, he was later recharged and went through another legal process. As of 2022, he was sentenced to 150 days in jail, although his legal team is still appealing the decision.
What Happened to Jussie Smollett’s Music Career?
Smollett had released several singles during his time on Empire, and he continues to pursue music on a smaller scale. He has released independent music, though he has not achieved the same level of success as he did during his acting career.
How Has Public Perception of Jussie Smollett Changed?
Public perception of Jussie Smollett has been polarized since the 2019 controversy. While some still support him, many in the entertainment industry and the general public have distanced themselves from him due to the legal case. However, Smollett continues to have a loyal fan base, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.