Jussie Smollett Was Denied Justice Because Chicago Police ‘Mishandled’ the Case, Actor’s Family Says
“There’s no verifiable evidence” against Jussie Smollett. That’s the claim the actor’s family made at a press briefing as they insisted Chicago police “mishandled” the case and Smollett was denied justice.
During the hour-long virtual gathering on Friday, the “Empire” star’s siblings — Jazz Smollett, Jocqui Smollett and Joel Smollett stated their case. The Smollett family and defense attorney Heather Widell met with a select group of Los Angeles-based Black journalists and insisted Jussie never lied about being assaulted.
“Our main focus right now is making sure that the media understands that the narrative that Jussie is lying, that he committed perjury in any way, or that his story fell apart is just patently not correct,” said attorney Widell. “We have independent witnesses who completely and unequivocally corroborate Jesse’s story of what he saw that night.”
However, Widell didn’t elaborate on the identities of those witnesses.
During the hour-long virtual gathering on Friday, the “Empire” star’s siblings — Jazz Smollett, Jocqui Smollett and Joel Smollett stated their case. The Smollett family and defense attorney Heather Widell met with a select group of Los Angeles-based Black journalists and insisted Jussie never lied about being assaulted.
“Our main focus right now is making sure that the media understands that the narrative that Jussie is lying, that he committed perjury in any way, or that his story fell apart is just patently not correct,” said attorney Widell. “We have independent witnesses who completely and unequivocally corroborate Jesse’s story of what he saw that night.”
However, Widell didn’t elaborate on the identities of those witnesses.
- 3/19/2022
- by Anita Bennett
- The Wrap
Us District Court Judge Virginia Kendall ruled Wednesday that Jussie Smollett’s claim of malicious prosecution by the City of Chicago cannot move forward.
The judge did rule that Smollett can refile the case if he’s found not guilty in his upcoming trial on his original charges of fabricating a racially charged assault.
More from DeadlineJussie Smollett Rejected By Illinois Supreme Court In Bid To Halt New Indictments Over Fake Hate Crime - Update'Empire' Showrunner Brett Mahoney On Tonight's Covid-19 Induced Series Finale, Possibility Of More, A Cookie Spinoff & No Jussie SmollettJussie Smollett's Lawyer Claims New Indictment Over Alleged Chicago Assault "Is Clearly All About Politics"
A grand jury in February re-indicted Smollet on charges he staged a hate crime. Special prosecutor Dan Webb pushed for the charges after Smollett’s original 16 counts were dropped by prosecutors, a move that caused outrage in some quarters.
Webb filed a new...
The judge did rule that Smollett can refile the case if he’s found not guilty in his upcoming trial on his original charges of fabricating a racially charged assault.
More from DeadlineJussie Smollett Rejected By Illinois Supreme Court In Bid To Halt New Indictments Over Fake Hate Crime - Update'Empire' Showrunner Brett Mahoney On Tonight's Covid-19 Induced Series Finale, Possibility Of More, A Cookie Spinoff & No Jussie SmollettJussie Smollett's Lawyer Claims New Indictment Over Alleged Chicago Assault "Is Clearly All About Politics"
A grand jury in February re-indicted Smollet on charges he staged a hate crime. Special prosecutor Dan Webb pushed for the charges after Smollett’s original 16 counts were dropped by prosecutors, a move that caused outrage in some quarters.
Webb filed a new...
- 4/23/2020
- by Bruce Haring and Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
The Cook County State’s Attorney whose office was tasked with handling the prosecution of “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett at one point referred to him as a “washed up celeb who lied to cops” yet argued that he was being charged with an excessive amount of felonies.
In text messages obtained by Variety, Kim Foxx wrote to one of her associates on March 8, just after Smollett had been indicted on 16 felony counts, “Sooo…I’m recused. But when people accuse us of overcharging cases … 16 counts on a class 4 becomes exhibit A.”
The associate answered, “Yes. I can see where that can be seen as excessive.”
“Pedophile with 4 victims 10 counts. Washed up celeb who lied to cops, 16,” Foxx added, apparently comparing the charges to those faced by singer R. Kelly. Then, she wrote, “On a case eligible for deferred prosecution I think it’s indicative of something we should be looking at generally.
In text messages obtained by Variety, Kim Foxx wrote to one of her associates on March 8, just after Smollett had been indicted on 16 felony counts, “Sooo…I’m recused. But when people accuse us of overcharging cases … 16 counts on a class 4 becomes exhibit A.”
The associate answered, “Yes. I can see where that can be seen as excessive.”
“Pedophile with 4 victims 10 counts. Washed up celeb who lied to cops, 16,” Foxx added, apparently comparing the charges to those faced by singer R. Kelly. Then, she wrote, “On a case eligible for deferred prosecution I think it’s indicative of something we should be looking at generally.
- 4/17/2019
- by Ted Johnson
- Variety Film + TV
Empire's Jussie Smollett looks set to return for a potential sixth season of the primetime soap, according to his co-star Taraji P. Henson.
"I talk to Jussie all the time, he's doing well," Henson said on a recent episode of The View, in which she was asked about what was going on with the embattled actor.
"Yeah, we're all doing well, the show is doing well, we're on hiatus right now, the writers are trying to figure out what the next season is going to look like; what our storyline is going to be," she continued.
"They're trying to drum up some really good juicy stuff for you guys, so that's where we are right now."
Related: Jussie Smollett: All Charges Dropped Against Empire Star
She was then asked about Jussie's involvement with the series beyond the current fifth season, and she was quick to answer.
"Yes, I haven't heard anything else,...
"I talk to Jussie all the time, he's doing well," Henson said on a recent episode of The View, in which she was asked about what was going on with the embattled actor.
"Yeah, we're all doing well, the show is doing well, we're on hiatus right now, the writers are trying to figure out what the next season is going to look like; what our storyline is going to be," she continued.
"They're trying to drum up some really good juicy stuff for you guys, so that's where we are right now."
Related: Jussie Smollett: All Charges Dropped Against Empire Star
She was then asked about Jussie's involvement with the series beyond the current fifth season, and she was quick to answer.
"Yes, I haven't heard anything else,...
- 4/5/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Jussie Smollett’s attorney sent a defiant letter to the City of Chicago on Thursday evening, saying the “Empire” actor will not be “intimidated” into paying for the investigation of his alleged hate crime.
The city has said it intends to sue Smollett to recoup the $130,000 in police overtime costs arising from the incident, which Smollett is accused of staging. Smollett was initially indicted on 16 counts of filing a false police report, but the charges were dropped suddenly last week.
In his letter to the city, attorney Mark Geragos said that Smollett maintains his innocence, and that it would be both unprecedented and unconstitutional for the city to pursue him in civil court.
“Your letter represents part of a course of conduct intended to harass and irreparably injure Mr. Smollett,” Geragos wrote, adding that such an action would be an abuse of the city’s false claims ordinance. “Our research...
The city has said it intends to sue Smollett to recoup the $130,000 in police overtime costs arising from the incident, which Smollett is accused of staging. Smollett was initially indicted on 16 counts of filing a false police report, but the charges were dropped suddenly last week.
In his letter to the city, attorney Mark Geragos said that Smollett maintains his innocence, and that it would be both unprecedented and unconstitutional for the city to pursue him in civil court.
“Your letter represents part of a course of conduct intended to harass and irreparably injure Mr. Smollett,” Geragos wrote, adding that such an action would be an abuse of the city’s false claims ordinance. “Our research...
- 4/5/2019
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Jussie Smollett's lawyer says the actor will not be intimidated by the City of Chicago's latest move -- to recover $130k in investigative costs -- hinting he might sue the City for defamation. Jussie's lawyer, Mark Geragos, fired off an angry letter to the city, saying Jussie "will not be intimated," calling the claim his client faked the "attack" "false and defamatory." As we reported, the City is preparing a civil lawsuit to...
- 4/5/2019
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Protests erupted Monday in Chicago over the Jussie Smollett case, with rival groups squaring off outside the offices of Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx.
One group, including members of the Fraternal Order of Police, called for Foxx’s ouster, according to ABC7 Chicago. The other side, including Rev. Jesse Jackson and local activists, said they stand behind the embattled prosecutor.
Hundreds of people took part in the dueling protests, with Foxx critics repeatedly chanting “Foxx must go!”
But Jackson called criticism of the state’s attorney “unreasonable, unjustified and politically motivated.”
Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church said the African-American Foxx is being targeted because of her race.
“The attack on Kim Foxx is not about Jussie. Rather, it’s an excuse to try to remove a strong black woman who comes in the office of state’s attorney to reform it,” Pfleger said.
Foxx has faced...
One group, including members of the Fraternal Order of Police, called for Foxx’s ouster, according to ABC7 Chicago. The other side, including Rev. Jesse Jackson and local activists, said they stand behind the embattled prosecutor.
Hundreds of people took part in the dueling protests, with Foxx critics repeatedly chanting “Foxx must go!”
But Jackson called criticism of the state’s attorney “unreasonable, unjustified and politically motivated.”
Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church said the African-American Foxx is being targeted because of her race.
“The attack on Kim Foxx is not about Jussie. Rather, it’s an excuse to try to remove a strong black woman who comes in the office of state’s attorney to reform it,” Pfleger said.
Foxx has faced...
- 4/2/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
The cast and crew of Fox Empire have been on “a freakin’ rollercoaster” over the past few weeks with the Jussie Smollett scandal, according to Lee Daniels, the show’s co-creator and executive producer.
"Me and my cast have experienced pain and anger and sadness and frustration and really don’t know how to deal with it,” Daniels said in an Instagram video on Wednesday night, which was shared hours before the airing of a new Empire episode.
“Everything has happened — what you are seeing tonight — prior to the incident,” he said.
“And this is not what the show was made for. The show was made to bring America together to talk about the atrocities that are happening right now in the streets.”
Related: Empire: Jussie Smollett Charged for Filing False Police Report
Daniels did not mention Jussie Smollett by name, but the context of the video certainly seems to...
"Me and my cast have experienced pain and anger and sadness and frustration and really don’t know how to deal with it,” Daniels said in an Instagram video on Wednesday night, which was shared hours before the airing of a new Empire episode.
“Everything has happened — what you are seeing tonight — prior to the incident,” he said.
“And this is not what the show was made for. The show was made to bring America together to talk about the atrocities that are happening right now in the streets.”
Related: Empire: Jussie Smollett Charged for Filing False Police Report
Daniels did not mention Jussie Smollett by name, but the context of the video certainly seems to...
- 3/21/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Jussie Smollett entered a formal not guilty plea to 16 counts of disorderly conduct in a Chicago court on Thursday, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Smollett was indicted by a Cook County grand jury on those 16 felony counts last week after being accused of lying to police regarding a Jan. 29 incident, in which he said he was randomly attacked by two men shouting racial and homophobic slurs in his Chicago neighborhood.
The “Empire” star was originally charged with one felony count for filing a false police report by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office last month.
Judge Steven Watkins has been assigned to preside over Smollett’s case, with the actor set to return to court on April 17, according to CBS Chicago.
Representatives for Smollett and a spokesperson for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for confirmation.
Smollett surrendered himself to Chicago police on Feb.
Smollett was indicted by a Cook County grand jury on those 16 felony counts last week after being accused of lying to police regarding a Jan. 29 incident, in which he said he was randomly attacked by two men shouting racial and homophobic slurs in his Chicago neighborhood.
The “Empire” star was originally charged with one felony count for filing a false police report by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office last month.
Judge Steven Watkins has been assigned to preside over Smollett’s case, with the actor set to return to court on April 17, according to CBS Chicago.
Representatives for Smollett and a spokesperson for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for confirmation.
Smollett surrendered himself to Chicago police on Feb.
- 3/14/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Nearly a month and a half after Jussie Smollett claimed he was brutally assaulted in the streets of Chicago, the Empire actor appeared in court today to enter a plea to multiple charges of having given a false account to the police.
With lawyers and family in the Cook County courthouse, Smollett’s attorney , Tina Glandian expectedly plead “not guilty” for the subdued actor to the 16 felony counts of disorderly conduct. First charged and arrested on February 21 over the seemingly violent January 29 incident that Chicago Pd initially considered a “potential hate crime,” Smollett was indicted on the more than a dozen new charges on March 8.
Smollett will next be due in court on April 17.
Currently out on $100,000 bail, the actor who plays the openly gay Jamal Lyon on the Lee Daniels and Danny Strong created Fox series could face more than three years behind bars and a $25,000 fine on each...
With lawyers and family in the Cook County courthouse, Smollett’s attorney , Tina Glandian expectedly plead “not guilty” for the subdued actor to the 16 felony counts of disorderly conduct. First charged and arrested on February 21 over the seemingly violent January 29 incident that Chicago Pd initially considered a “potential hate crime,” Smollett was indicted on the more than a dozen new charges on March 8.
Smollett will next be due in court on April 17.
Currently out on $100,000 bail, the actor who plays the openly gay Jamal Lyon on the Lee Daniels and Danny Strong created Fox series could face more than three years behind bars and a $25,000 fine on each...
- 3/14/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Gloria Schmidt, the lawyer representing the two brothers “Empire” star Jussie Smollett is accused of hiring to stage an attack against him, says a key piece of evidence is “more nuanced” than many people realize.
Smollett’s $3,500 check to Abimbola Osundairo says in the memo line that it was for “5 Week Nutrition/Workout Program (Don’t Go),” according to a copy received by ABC News. (“Don’t Go” is the name of a song Smollett says he was getting ready to shoot a music video for.)
Chicago police, however, said the check was payment for Abimbola “Abel” Osundairo and Olabinjo “Ola” Osundairo to attack Smollett on Jan. 29.
But Schmidt told TheWrap on Wednesday that the check was for both the attack and the training.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Betrayed Osundairo Brothers, Lawyer Says: 'They Put Their Trust in the Wrong Person' (Video)
“The idea of them getting paid by Jussie...
Smollett’s $3,500 check to Abimbola Osundairo says in the memo line that it was for “5 Week Nutrition/Workout Program (Don’t Go),” according to a copy received by ABC News. (“Don’t Go” is the name of a song Smollett says he was getting ready to shoot a music video for.)
Chicago police, however, said the check was payment for Abimbola “Abel” Osundairo and Olabinjo “Ola” Osundairo to attack Smollett on Jan. 29.
But Schmidt told TheWrap on Wednesday that the check was for both the attack and the training.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Betrayed Osundairo Brothers, Lawyer Says: 'They Put Their Trust in the Wrong Person' (Video)
“The idea of them getting paid by Jussie...
- 3/14/2019
- by Tony Maglio and Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Gloria Schmidt, the attorney for Abel and Ola Osundairo, the men who say Jussie Smollett paid them to stage an attack on him, told Cbsn on Monday, “This entire thing started because they put their trust in the wrong person.”
“You have someone here who is a celebrity type, someone here in a position of trust, someone who works with these people, someone who is able to help their careers if he so wants to — and then he betrays them,” Schmidt said, reiterating that her clients “feel tremendously regretful” about their role. “So the impact that this has had — not only on them, but on minority populations — that weighs very heavily on them.”
Watch snippets of the interview below.
Gloria Schmidt, attorney for Osundairo brothers, told Cbsn they are "tremendously regretful" for their role in the alleged hoax attack on "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett https://t.co/vk5Slfa36v pic.
“You have someone here who is a celebrity type, someone here in a position of trust, someone who works with these people, someone who is able to help their careers if he so wants to — and then he betrays them,” Schmidt said, reiterating that her clients “feel tremendously regretful” about their role. “So the impact that this has had — not only on them, but on minority populations — that weighs very heavily on them.”
Watch snippets of the interview below.
Gloria Schmidt, attorney for Osundairo brothers, told Cbsn they are "tremendously regretful" for their role in the alleged hoax attack on "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett https://t.co/vk5Slfa36v pic.
- 3/11/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Mark Geragos, a member of Jussie Smollett’s defense team, said Friday that news that the “Empire” star was indicted on 16 felony counts by a Cook County Grand Jury on Friday was not a surprise to him.
“This is not a newsflash. I expected it,” Geragos told “Access” on Friday. “The way the process operates is they have to do a probable cause proceeding, so this is what’s called a probable cause proceeding. I never thought they would do a preliminary hearing.” Watch the clip above.
In a separate statement provided to TheWrap, Geragos said: “The fact of an indictment was not unexpected. We knew that there is no way they would expose their evidence to a public airing and subject their witnesses to cross-examination. What is unexpected, however, is the prosecutorial overkill in charging 16 separate counts against Jussie.
“This redundant and vindictive indictment is nothing more than a...
“This is not a newsflash. I expected it,” Geragos told “Access” on Friday. “The way the process operates is they have to do a probable cause proceeding, so this is what’s called a probable cause proceeding. I never thought they would do a preliminary hearing.” Watch the clip above.
In a separate statement provided to TheWrap, Geragos said: “The fact of an indictment was not unexpected. We knew that there is no way they would expose their evidence to a public airing and subject their witnesses to cross-examination. What is unexpected, however, is the prosecutorial overkill in charging 16 separate counts against Jussie.
“This redundant and vindictive indictment is nothing more than a...
- 3/9/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollett was indicted on 16 felony counts of disorderly conduct for making a false report by a Chicago grand jury Friday, according to NBC News.
The “Empire” star was originally charged with one felony count for filing a false police report by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office last month, in connection to the incident that he reported on Jan. 29 where he said he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.”
A spokesperson for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office did not immediately confirm reports of the grand jury’s 16-count indictment against Smollett when reached by TheWrap.
“This is not a newsflash. I expected it,” Mark Geragos, a member of Jussie Smollett’s defense team, told “Access” on Friday. “The way the process operates is they have to do a probable cause proceeding, so this is what’s called a probable cause proceeding.
The “Empire” star was originally charged with one felony count for filing a false police report by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office last month, in connection to the incident that he reported on Jan. 29 where he said he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.”
A spokesperson for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office did not immediately confirm reports of the grand jury’s 16-count indictment against Smollett when reached by TheWrap.
“This is not a newsflash. I expected it,” Mark Geragos, a member of Jussie Smollett’s defense team, told “Access” on Friday. “The way the process operates is they have to do a probable cause proceeding, so this is what’s called a probable cause proceeding.
- 3/8/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
The blast radius from the alleged racist and homophobic attack on Jussie Smollett continues to grow – and we don’t mean the actor’s future on Empire or his next court appearance.
As Smollett faces multiple felony charges for supposedly staging the widely reviled assault at the end of January, the Chicago Police Department has now opened a probe into leaks that came from its officers and officials during the early days of the case.
“An internal investigation has been opened,” the Windy City’ cops’ Sgt. Rocco Alioto confirmed to Deadline on Friday.
“I would like to point out that a lot of the information out there was inaccurate and there were numerous agencies involved in this investigation,” Sgt. Alioto added, noting the presence of the FBI and others in the case. “As a standard procedure when there are allegations of information being leaked, an internal investigation has been opened...
As Smollett faces multiple felony charges for supposedly staging the widely reviled assault at the end of January, the Chicago Police Department has now opened a probe into leaks that came from its officers and officials during the early days of the case.
“An internal investigation has been opened,” the Windy City’ cops’ Sgt. Rocco Alioto confirmed to Deadline on Friday.
“I would like to point out that a lot of the information out there was inaccurate and there were numerous agencies involved in this investigation,” Sgt. Alioto added, noting the presence of the FBI and others in the case. “As a standard procedure when there are allegations of information being leaked, an internal investigation has been opened...
- 3/8/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
The brothers involved in the Jussie Smollett case, Olabinjo (“Ola”) and Abimbola (“Abel”) Osundairo, have released a new statement through their lawyer Gloria Schmidt, expressing “tremendous regret” for their participation.
“My clients have tremendous regret over their involvement in this situation, and they understand how it has impacted people across the nation, particularly minority communities and especially those who have been victims of hate crimes themselves,” Schmidt said in a statement provided to TheWrap on Thursday night.
TheWrap reached out to Schmidt immediately after we received the statement to ask if the brothers — who were initially persons of interest and turned out to have both worked on “Empire” — still fully maintain their story that Smollett paid them to stage an assault in Chicago on Jan. 29. Schmidt did not respond to our question.
Reps for Smollett did not immediately return our request for comment on this story.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett's...
“My clients have tremendous regret over their involvement in this situation, and they understand how it has impacted people across the nation, particularly minority communities and especially those who have been victims of hate crimes themselves,” Schmidt said in a statement provided to TheWrap on Thursday night.
TheWrap reached out to Schmidt immediately after we received the statement to ask if the brothers — who were initially persons of interest and turned out to have both worked on “Empire” — still fully maintain their story that Smollett paid them to stage an assault in Chicago on Jan. 29. Schmidt did not respond to our question.
Reps for Smollett did not immediately return our request for comment on this story.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett's...
- 3/1/2019
- by Tony Maglio and Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollett’s legal defense team has to do three things to save him from conviction: Discredit the main witnesses against him, rebut the police theory that he staged a hoax to get a raise, and explain a $3,500 check.
That’s the summation from defense attorneys who spoke with TheWrap — and Mark Geragos, one of Smollett’s legal advisers, has already signaled that he agrees, at least in part. Police suggested they had an open-and-shut case against Smollett when they charged him last week with filing a false police report.
But there are several ways Smollett can try to convince a jury he’s been wrongly accused.
Also Read: Why Jussie Smollett Probably Won't Get Prison Time
Smollett at first told police, on Jan. 29, that two men beat him, put a rope around his neck and covered him in bleach while shouting racist and homophobic slurs and referencing “Maga.”
Last week,...
That’s the summation from defense attorneys who spoke with TheWrap — and Mark Geragos, one of Smollett’s legal advisers, has already signaled that he agrees, at least in part. Police suggested they had an open-and-shut case against Smollett when they charged him last week with filing a false police report.
But there are several ways Smollett can try to convince a jury he’s been wrongly accused.
Also Read: Why Jussie Smollett Probably Won't Get Prison Time
Smollett at first told police, on Jan. 29, that two men beat him, put a rope around his neck and covered him in bleach while shouting racist and homophobic slurs and referencing “Maga.”
Last week,...
- 2/28/2019
- by Tony Maglio, Jennifer Maas and Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollett is unlikely to serve time if he’s convicted of filing a false police report, which he was charged with last week, Chicago-based defense attorneys and other legal experts told TheWrap.
“Empire” star Smollett is charged with a Class 4 felony count of disorderly conduct/filing a false police report. A Class 4 is the lowest kind of felony, and in Illinois carries a maximum of 1 to 3 years in prison. It could also result in a fine of up to $25,000.
“Almost nobody would go to prison on a class 4,” Andrew Weisberg, a former prosecutor in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office who now works as a defense attorney, told TheWrap. “I would be surprised if he got [prison] time.”
Also Read: Fox Removes Jussie Smollett From Final 2 Episodes of 'Empire' Season 5 Following Arrest
Weisberg said Smollett is more likely to get probation and be forced to pay...
“Empire” star Smollett is charged with a Class 4 felony count of disorderly conduct/filing a false police report. A Class 4 is the lowest kind of felony, and in Illinois carries a maximum of 1 to 3 years in prison. It could also result in a fine of up to $25,000.
“Almost nobody would go to prison on a class 4,” Andrew Weisberg, a former prosecutor in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office who now works as a defense attorney, told TheWrap. “I would be surprised if he got [prison] time.”
Also Read: Fox Removes Jussie Smollett From Final 2 Episodes of 'Empire' Season 5 Following Arrest
Weisberg said Smollett is more likely to get probation and be forced to pay...
- 2/26/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
The rope scarred James Cameron’s neck. That’s how close he came to dying in 1930. The same mob that had already lynched two other suspects in a white man’s murder spared the 16-year-old when, as he would tell it, a voice proclaimed his innocence. Cameron thus became the only known survivor of a lynching attempt in the United States when he died in 2006 at age 92. There haven’t been any others since, no matter what Clarence Thomas would have you believe.
Fifteen years after the eventual Supreme Court...
Fifteen years after the eventual Supreme Court...
- 2/26/2019
- by Jamil Smith
- Rollingstone.com
If "Empire" money was Jussie Smollett's motivation to allegedly stage an attack, he certainly never showed his cards to the people who could actually make it happen. "Empire" production sources tell TMZ ... none of the brass -- producers or EPs -- heard even a whisper from Jussie grousing he was underpaid. Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson said Jussie staged the "attack" to raise his profile and get more per episode. Our sources say, if...
- 2/26/2019
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Chicago police superintendent Eddie Johnson just doubled down on the cops’ theory that Jussie Smollett staged the assault he reported in late January.
“I can tell you this, Robin, there’s a lot more evidence that hasn’t been presented yet that does not support the version he gave,” Johnson told “Good Morning America” anchor Robin Roberts on Monday. “There’s still a lot of physical evidence, video evidence and testimony that just simply doesn’t support his version of what happened.”
Johnson said Smollett told police “at least the one” of his assailants was “a white-skinned person,” which clears up some confusion about where that part of the changing story came from. Smollett said he could see the skin color around the man’s eyes.
Also Read: Terrence Howard Supports Jussie Smollett: 'We Love the Hell Outta You' (Video)
Johnson also said that Gloria Schmidt, the attorney for brothers...
“I can tell you this, Robin, there’s a lot more evidence that hasn’t been presented yet that does not support the version he gave,” Johnson told “Good Morning America” anchor Robin Roberts on Monday. “There’s still a lot of physical evidence, video evidence and testimony that just simply doesn’t support his version of what happened.”
Johnson said Smollett told police “at least the one” of his assailants was “a white-skinned person,” which clears up some confusion about where that part of the changing story came from. Smollett said he could see the skin color around the man’s eyes.
Also Read: Terrence Howard Supports Jussie Smollett: 'We Love the Hell Outta You' (Video)
Johnson also said that Gloria Schmidt, the attorney for brothers...
- 2/25/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson says there is "a lot more evidence" that has yet to be presented that supports the charge that Empire star Jussie Smollett staged his alleged hate crime attack.
Sitting down with Robin Roberts on ABC's Good Morning America on Monday, the police chief said of the ongoing investigation into Smollett: "There’s a lot more evidence that hasn’t been presented yet, and does not support the version he gave. There’s still a lot of physical evidence, video evidence and testimony that just simply does not support his version of what happened....
Sitting down with Robin Roberts on ABC's Good Morning America on Monday, the police chief said of the ongoing investigation into Smollett: "There’s a lot more evidence that hasn’t been presented yet, and does not support the version he gave. There’s still a lot of physical evidence, video evidence and testimony that just simply does not support his version of what happened....
- 2/25/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Geraldo Rivera laced into Jussie Smollett on Friday, calling the “Empire” star a “race traitor” after Chicago police accused him of staging his own hate crime because he was unhappy with his salary on the show.
“This fellow Smollett is a race traitor,” the Fox News correspondent said on “Fox & Friends” Friday. “He is a cynical, selfish, self-absorbed person who would do absolutely anything to get a buck. The Chicago Police superintendent was repelled by him.”
“How dare he use a noose, the most potent symbol of oppression in the Jim Crow post-Civil War, post-slavery era that exists in this country, lynching in a city that gave us Emmett Till, the teenager who was later lynched down south,” Rivera continued. “Come on. This Smollett deserves all the scorn, all of the ridicule, all of the contempt that people are expressing toward him now.”
“Fox & Friends” co-host Brian Kilmeade was in broad agreement.
“This fellow Smollett is a race traitor,” the Fox News correspondent said on “Fox & Friends” Friday. “He is a cynical, selfish, self-absorbed person who would do absolutely anything to get a buck. The Chicago Police superintendent was repelled by him.”
“How dare he use a noose, the most potent symbol of oppression in the Jim Crow post-Civil War, post-slavery era that exists in this country, lynching in a city that gave us Emmett Till, the teenager who was later lynched down south,” Rivera continued. “Come on. This Smollett deserves all the scorn, all of the ridicule, all of the contempt that people are expressing toward him now.”
“Fox & Friends” co-host Brian Kilmeade was in broad agreement.
- 2/22/2019
- by Jon Levine
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollett has been removed from the final two episodes of “Empire” Season 5, following his arrest on the charges of filing a false police report, the Fox hip-hop drama’s executive producers announced Friday.
“The events of the past few weeks have been incredibly emotional for all of us,” read a statement from “Empire” co-creators Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, showrunner Brett Mahoney, and executive producers Brian Grazer, Sanaa Hamri, Francie Calfo and Dennis Hammer.
“Jussie has been an important member of our ‘Empire’ family for the past five years and we care about him deeply,” the statement continued. “While these allegations are very disturbing, we are placing our trust in the legal system as the process plays out. We are also aware of the effects of this process on the cast and crew members who work on our show and to avoid further disruption on set, we have decided...
“The events of the past few weeks have been incredibly emotional for all of us,” read a statement from “Empire” co-creators Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, showrunner Brett Mahoney, and executive producers Brian Grazer, Sanaa Hamri, Francie Calfo and Dennis Hammer.
“Jussie has been an important member of our ‘Empire’ family for the past five years and we care about him deeply,” the statement continued. “While these allegations are very disturbing, we are placing our trust in the legal system as the process plays out. We are also aware of the effects of this process on the cast and crew members who work on our show and to avoid further disruption on set, we have decided...
- 2/22/2019
- by Jennifer Maas and Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
On Thursday, The Daily Show‘s Trevor Noah was the first late-night host to weigh in on Jussie Smollett’s arrest, as well as the alleged motive for staging a racist and homophobic attack against himself.
“A month ago, few people knew who he was,” Noah began. “But now, the whole world knows Jussie’s name, and it’s for all the wrong reasons.”
According to Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, Smollett staged the attack because he was dissatisfied with his Empire salary. (Sources tell THR, though, that there have been no signs that Smollett is dissatisfied with his pay.
“A month ago, few people knew who he was,” Noah began. “But now, the whole world knows Jussie’s name, and it’s for all the wrong reasons.”
According to Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, Smollett staged the attack because he was dissatisfied with his Empire salary. (Sources tell THR, though, that there have been no signs that Smollett is dissatisfied with his pay.
- 2/22/2019
- TVLine.com
Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson says it's a lock -- Jussie Smollett sent that letter 8 days before the "attack" -- but various law enforcement sources tell TMZ the chief overstated things. Federal law enforcement sources tell us they're still investigating the letter and have drawn no conclusions. Both federal and state law enforcement sources say the operating theory was that the 2 brothers -- Abel and Ola Osundairo -- may have mailed the letter because, when cops...
- 2/22/2019
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Jussie Smollett, facing up to three years in prison, “fiercely” maintains that he is innocent of of filing a false police report in claiming he was attacked.
On Thursday, after Smollett posted bail (10 percent of a $100,000 bond) at the Cook County courthouse in Chicago, lawyers for the Empire actor issued a statement saying, “Today we witnessed an organized law enforcement spectacle that has no place in the American legal system. The presumption of innocence, a bedrock in the search for justice, was trampled upon at the expense of Mr. Smollett and notably, on the eve of a Mayoral election.
“Mr.
On Thursday, after Smollett posted bail (10 percent of a $100,000 bond) at the Cook County courthouse in Chicago, lawyers for the Empire actor issued a statement saying, “Today we witnessed an organized law enforcement spectacle that has no place in the American legal system. The presumption of innocence, a bedrock in the search for justice, was trampled upon at the expense of Mr. Smollett and notably, on the eve of a Mayoral election.
“Mr.
- 2/22/2019
- TVLine.com
Out on $100,000 bail and back on the Empire set for a stint, Jussie Smollett on Thursday insisted he is innocent of conniving a racist and homophobic assault upon himself.
“Mr. Smollet is a young man of impeccable character and integrity who fiercely and solemnly maintains his innocence and feels betrayed by a system that apparently wants to skip due process and proceed directly to sentencing,” read a statement sent out late Thursday on behalf of the Empire actor.
“Today we witnessed an organized law enforcement spectacle that has no place in the American legal system,” the hyperbolic statement added. “The presumption of innocence, a bedrock in the search for justice, was trampled upon at the expense of Mr. Smollett and notably, on the eve of a Mayoral election,” it also noted, tossing more political edge into an already sharply political affair.
Facing a potential three years behind bars for the...
“Mr. Smollet is a young man of impeccable character and integrity who fiercely and solemnly maintains his innocence and feels betrayed by a system that apparently wants to skip due process and proceed directly to sentencing,” read a statement sent out late Thursday on behalf of the Empire actor.
“Today we witnessed an organized law enforcement spectacle that has no place in the American legal system,” the hyperbolic statement added. “The presumption of innocence, a bedrock in the search for justice, was trampled upon at the expense of Mr. Smollett and notably, on the eve of a Mayoral election,” it also noted, tossing more political edge into an already sharply political affair.
Facing a potential three years behind bars for the...
- 2/22/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Jussie Smollett has returned to the set of Fox’s “Empire” within hours after posting bail and being released from Chicago Pd custody following his arrest on the charges of filing a false police report, TheWrap has learned.
Smollett’s bail was set at $100,000 and he was told he must surrender his passport, during a bond hearing in front of State of Illinois Circuit Court of Cook County Judge John Fitzgerald Lyke Jr. earlier Thursday afternoon. He was required to post $10,000 (10 percent) for release. His next court date has been set for March 14 at 11:30 a.m.
The actor — who plays the openly gay Jamal Lyon on Fox’s hip-hop drama — turned himself in to police at 5 a.m. Ct this morning, hours after he was formally charged with filing a false police report.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Bail Set at $100,000, Must Surrender Passport
As TheWrap previously reported, Smollett’s...
Smollett’s bail was set at $100,000 and he was told he must surrender his passport, during a bond hearing in front of State of Illinois Circuit Court of Cook County Judge John Fitzgerald Lyke Jr. earlier Thursday afternoon. He was required to post $10,000 (10 percent) for release. His next court date has been set for March 14 at 11:30 a.m.
The actor — who plays the openly gay Jamal Lyon on Fox’s hip-hop drama — turned himself in to police at 5 a.m. Ct this morning, hours after he was formally charged with filing a false police report.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Bail Set at $100,000, Must Surrender Passport
As TheWrap previously reported, Smollett’s...
- 2/21/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollett is back on the set of “Empire” in Chicago following his release from police custody on Thursday, Variety has learned.
Smollett was released after posting bail in Chicago after police charged him with staging what was originally reported as a hate crime last month. He was originally intended to film throughout this week on the Fox series, but his role was dramatically reduced in light of his ongoing legal troubles.
Fox has stood behind the actor for the most part, issuing multiple statements backing him as evidence grew that he had staged his own assault. Earlier on Thursday though, the network released a new statement that said in part, “We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options.”
Even with his mounting legal troubles, Smollett has big pockets of support within Fox and there was hope as late as Wednesday that he would be able to...
Smollett was released after posting bail in Chicago after police charged him with staging what was originally reported as a hate crime last month. He was originally intended to film throughout this week on the Fox series, but his role was dramatically reduced in light of his ongoing legal troubles.
Fox has stood behind the actor for the most part, issuing multiple statements backing him as evidence grew that he had staged his own assault. Earlier on Thursday though, the network released a new statement that said in part, “We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options.”
Even with his mounting legal troubles, Smollett has big pockets of support within Fox and there was hope as late as Wednesday that he would be able to...
- 2/21/2019
- by Joe Otterson and Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
A stern Jussie Smollett was released on $100,000 bond in a court hearing Thursday afternoon after being arrested this morning on multiple felony charges stemming from an alleged assault late last month.
With police and prosecutors insisting the Empire star staged the seemingly racist and homophobic attack against him January 29, the late-starting hearing saw a series of texts from last month between the Empire actor and brothers Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo planning the attack being read out in court.
Those messages included preparing money to buy supplies, buying drugs, setting up meetings and ensuring that Maga hats and chants were part of the assault, which occurred in the early morning hours in front of Smollett’s Chicago apartment and lasted less than a minute.
In addition, besides the previously known $3,500 check Smollett wrote the siblings, extensive details were provided outside the hearing by Assistant D.A. Ressa Lanier of the Cook County state’s attorney office.
With police and prosecutors insisting the Empire star staged the seemingly racist and homophobic attack against him January 29, the late-starting hearing saw a series of texts from last month between the Empire actor and brothers Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo planning the attack being read out in court.
Those messages included preparing money to buy supplies, buying drugs, setting up meetings and ensuring that Maga hats and chants were part of the assault, which occurred in the early morning hours in front of Smollett’s Chicago apartment and lasted less than a minute.
In addition, besides the previously known $3,500 check Smollett wrote the siblings, extensive details were provided outside the hearing by Assistant D.A. Ressa Lanier of the Cook County state’s attorney office.
- 2/21/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Jussie Smollett has been arrested, and he may well find himself out of a job.
Empire is “evaluating the situation” following Jussie Smollett‘s arrest for allegedly staging a racist and homophobic attack against himself, Fox revealed Thursday.
20th Century Fox Television and Fox Entertainment said: “We understand the seriousness of this matter and we respect the legal process. We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options.”
Smollett has been a series regular as Jamal Lyon on the popular drama series. The arrest was in relation to him allegedly filing a false police report after the supposed attack took place in late January.
Related: Empire: Jussie Smollett Arrested for False Police Report
Smollet sought medical and police assistance and claimed that he was attacked by two white men who beat him, hurled racist and homophobic insults at him, poured bleach over him, put a noose around his...
Empire is “evaluating the situation” following Jussie Smollett‘s arrest for allegedly staging a racist and homophobic attack against himself, Fox revealed Thursday.
20th Century Fox Television and Fox Entertainment said: “We understand the seriousness of this matter and we respect the legal process. We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options.”
Smollett has been a series regular as Jamal Lyon on the popular drama series. The arrest was in relation to him allegedly filing a false police report after the supposed attack took place in late January.
Related: Empire: Jussie Smollett Arrested for False Police Report
Smollet sought medical and police assistance and claimed that he was attacked by two white men who beat him, hurled racist and homophobic insults at him, poured bleach over him, put a noose around his...
- 2/21/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
TNT has dropped an upcoming episode of “Drop the Mic” featuring Jussie Smollett following the “Empire” star’s surrender to Chicago Pd early Thursday morning on charges of filing a false police report.
“We are pulling the episode in the interest of not being exploitative of an incredibly sensitive situation,” a TNT spokesperson said in a statement to TheWrap on Thursday. “We are holding on airing his episode for now and we are replacing it with the Raven Symone vs Ron Funches and Joey McIntyre vs Joey Fatone episode.”
On the now-shelved “Drop the Mic,” Danielle Brooks, who plays Taystee on “Orange Is The New Black,” faced off against Smollett in a battle and “American Idol” star Clay Aiken took on “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Sharknado” star Ian Ziering.
Also Read: How Police Busted Jussie Smollett
“Drop the Mic” executive producer and head writer Jensen Karp added in a tweet:...
“We are pulling the episode in the interest of not being exploitative of an incredibly sensitive situation,” a TNT spokesperson said in a statement to TheWrap on Thursday. “We are holding on airing his episode for now and we are replacing it with the Raven Symone vs Ron Funches and Joey McIntyre vs Joey Fatone episode.”
On the now-shelved “Drop the Mic,” Danielle Brooks, who plays Taystee on “Orange Is The New Black,” faced off against Smollett in a battle and “American Idol” star Clay Aiken took on “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Sharknado” star Ian Ziering.
Also Read: How Police Busted Jussie Smollett
“Drop the Mic” executive producer and head writer Jensen Karp added in a tweet:...
- 2/21/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Breaking …Just a couple of hours before a now arrested Jussie Smollett faces a Chicago judge on the criminal charges he was indicted for yesterday related to the alleged racist and homophobic attack of late last month, Fox has started walking back its once firm support of the actor.
“We understand the seriousness of this matter and we respect the legal process,” said 20th Century Fox TV and Fox Entertainment of the Empire star this morning. “We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options.”
With those potentially ominous last three words, production on the final episodes of the current season of Empire continues Thursday in the Windy City. In custody in an isolated Chicago Pd cell, the actor who plays the openly gay Jamal Lyon on the Lee Daniels and Danny Strong co-created Fox show, is obviously not on set today.
Though Fox and Smollett’s agency...
“We understand the seriousness of this matter and we respect the legal process,” said 20th Century Fox TV and Fox Entertainment of the Empire star this morning. “We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options.”
With those potentially ominous last three words, production on the final episodes of the current season of Empire continues Thursday in the Windy City. In custody in an isolated Chicago Pd cell, the actor who plays the openly gay Jamal Lyon on the Lee Daniels and Danny Strong co-created Fox show, is obviously not on set today.
Though Fox and Smollett’s agency...
- 2/21/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Twentieth Century Fox said it is “considering our options” on “Empire” star Jussie Smollett after he was arrested Thursday morning on a felony charge of filing a false police report.
“We understand the seriousness of this matter and we respect the legal process. We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options,” the studio, which produces the Fox network drama, said in a statement.
Smollett surrendered himself to police at 5 a.m. Ct Thursday, when he was arrested on charges of filing a false police report. The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.” After releasing two former suspects over the weekend, police said they wanted to interview Smollett again — and days later declared him a suspect.
Also Read: Trump Accuses Jussie Smollett of Making 'Racist and Dangerous Comments'
During a press conference Thursday morning,...
“We understand the seriousness of this matter and we respect the legal process. We are evaluating the situation and we are considering our options,” the studio, which produces the Fox network drama, said in a statement.
Smollett surrendered himself to police at 5 a.m. Ct Thursday, when he was arrested on charges of filing a false police report. The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.” After releasing two former suspects over the weekend, police said they wanted to interview Smollett again — and days later declared him a suspect.
Also Read: Trump Accuses Jussie Smollett of Making 'Racist and Dangerous Comments'
During a press conference Thursday morning,...
- 2/21/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Chicago Police superintendent Eddie Johnson called out celebrities, news commentators and even presidential candidates on Thursday for their decision to amplify coverage of what he said was the “phony attack” against “Empire” star Jussie Smollett.
“The accusation within this phony attack received national attention for weeks,” Johnson told reporters during a press conference. “Celebrities, news commentators and even presidential candidates weighed in on something that was choreographed by an actor.
“This announcement today recognized that ‘Empire’ actor Jussie Smollett took advantage of the pain and anger of racism to promote his career,” Johnson continued, adding that the star had staged the attack because he was unhappy with his salary on the Fox show.
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
“I am left hanging my head asking ‘why?’ Why would anyone — especially an African American man — use the symbolism...
“The accusation within this phony attack received national attention for weeks,” Johnson told reporters during a press conference. “Celebrities, news commentators and even presidential candidates weighed in on something that was choreographed by an actor.
“This announcement today recognized that ‘Empire’ actor Jussie Smollett took advantage of the pain and anger of racism to promote his career,” Johnson continued, adding that the star had staged the attack because he was unhappy with his salary on the Fox show.
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
“I am left hanging my head asking ‘why?’ Why would anyone — especially an African American man — use the symbolism...
- 2/21/2019
- by Jon Levine
- The Wrap
In the wake of Jussie Smollett's arrest, TNT has pulled an episode of Drop the Mic that was going to feature the actor.
The Empire star was arrested Wednesday and charged with falsifying a police report after Smollett said he was attacked on Jan. 29. Smollett's account came into doubt in the weeks after the alleged incident, and he was named as a suspect in the investigation earlier this week.
In a press conference Thursday, Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson called the attack a "hoax" put together because Smollett was "dissatisfied with his salary" on the ...
The Empire star was arrested Wednesday and charged with falsifying a police report after Smollett said he was attacked on Jan. 29. Smollett's account came into doubt in the weeks after the alleged incident, and he was named as a suspect in the investigation earlier this week.
In a press conference Thursday, Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson called the attack a "hoax" put together because Smollett was "dissatisfied with his salary" on the ...
- 2/21/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson addressed the reasoning behind Jussie Smollett staging his own hate crime attack. Speaking during a press conference, Johnson said the “Empire” actor faked the attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary.” Smollett turned himself into Chicago police at 5:00 a.m. Ct this morning after being charged February 20 with making a fake police report. Filing a false police report is a Class 4 felony in Chicago, which means Smollett could face one to three years in prison if convicted.
Johnson said Smollett will appear today in front of a bond court judge at 1:30 p.m. Ct. According to Johnson, the actor showed up to the Chicago police department with his attorneys and his arrest “went smoothly.” The fake attack occurred January 29. Smollett originally reported that he had been attacked by two men who yelled racist and homophobic slurs at him and got physically violent with him.
Johnson said Smollett will appear today in front of a bond court judge at 1:30 p.m. Ct. According to Johnson, the actor showed up to the Chicago police department with his attorneys and his arrest “went smoothly.” The fake attack occurred January 29. Smollett originally reported that he had been attacked by two men who yelled racist and homophobic slurs at him and got physically violent with him.
- 2/21/2019
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Chicago Pd released Jussie Smollett’s mug shot on Thursday, following his arrest the night before.
The “Empire” actor is currently “in custody of detectives” after being charged with filing a false police report, Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said earlier Thursday morning.
The official police photo shows the 36-year-old former “Mighty Ducks” child star looking somber while wearing a black jacket over a white shirt.
You can see his mug shot below:
via Chicago Police Department
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Arrested on Felony Charge of Filing False Police Report
During a press conference later that morning, Chicago Pd Superintendent Eddie Johnson said Smollett staged the Chicago attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary.”
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted...
The “Empire” actor is currently “in custody of detectives” after being charged with filing a false police report, Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said earlier Thursday morning.
The official police photo shows the 36-year-old former “Mighty Ducks” child star looking somber while wearing a black jacket over a white shirt.
You can see his mug shot below:
via Chicago Police Department
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Arrested on Felony Charge of Filing False Police Report
During a press conference later that morning, Chicago Pd Superintendent Eddie Johnson said Smollett staged the Chicago attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary.”
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted...
- 2/21/2019
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
The Chicago Police Department held a press conference on Thursday to brief reporters on the terms of Jussie Smollett’s arrest. The Empire star surrendered to authorities earlier that day and faces a felony criminal charge of disorderly conduct/filing a false police report in connection with his alleged attack last month.
“Empire actor Jussie Smollett took advantage of the pain and anger of racism to promote his career,” Superintendent Eddie Johnson said. “I’m left hanging my head and asking why. Why would anyone, especially an African-American man, use the symbolism of a noose to make false accusations? How...
“Empire actor Jussie Smollett took advantage of the pain and anger of racism to promote his career,” Superintendent Eddie Johnson said. “I’m left hanging my head and asking why. Why would anyone, especially an African-American man, use the symbolism of a noose to make false accusations? How...
- 2/21/2019
- TVLine.com
Chicago Police: Jussie Smollett Staged “Shameful” Assault Hoax For Better Salary, Career Advancement
Empire actor Jussie Smollett staged the Jan. 29 assault hoax because he was “dissatisfied with his salary” and to promote his career, according to a self-described “angry” and “offended” Chicago Supt. Eddie Johnson.
That startling assertion came during this morning’s Chicago Police press conference on the Smollett’s arrest. Johnson said Smollett paid siblings Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo $3,500 to participate in the phony attack, with an additional $500 promised upon completion. Police are now treating the brothers as witnesses, and Johnson said the Osundairos implicated Smollett 47 hours into their 48-hour police detention.
The brothers were taken into custody on Feb. 13 as persons of interest, and Johnson said police had only one hour left to hold them without charges when the Osundairos confessed that the actor was behind the incident.
“From the very beginning we had some questions about it,” Johnson said, adding that was given “the benefit of the doubt until...
That startling assertion came during this morning’s Chicago Police press conference on the Smollett’s arrest. Johnson said Smollett paid siblings Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo $3,500 to participate in the phony attack, with an additional $500 promised upon completion. Police are now treating the brothers as witnesses, and Johnson said the Osundairos implicated Smollett 47 hours into their 48-hour police detention.
The brothers were taken into custody on Feb. 13 as persons of interest, and Johnson said police had only one hour left to hold them without charges when the Osundairos confessed that the actor was behind the incident.
“From the very beginning we had some questions about it,” Johnson said, adding that was given “the benefit of the doubt until...
- 2/21/2019
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Jussie Smollett staged his Chicago attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary,” Chicago Pd Superintendent Eddie Johnson said Thursday morning during a press conference. Johnson also said Smollett sent the letter threatening himself to Fox, the “Empire” studio.
When Johnson first made those statements, he did not mention their source or his proof. Minutes later, during the media conference’s Q&A portion, the police superintendent responded “yes” to a reporter who asked if that information came from brothers Olabinjo (“Ola”) and Abimbola (“Abel”) Osundairo.
Johnson also said the following of Smollett’s photographed wounds: “So of course it was staged. The brothers had on gloves during the staged attack where they punched him a little bit. But as far as we can tell, the scratches and bruising that you saw on his face were most likely self-inflicted.”
Also Read: See Jussie Smollett's Mug Shot (Photo)
Chicago Pd released...
When Johnson first made those statements, he did not mention their source or his proof. Minutes later, during the media conference’s Q&A portion, the police superintendent responded “yes” to a reporter who asked if that information came from brothers Olabinjo (“Ola”) and Abimbola (“Abel”) Osundairo.
Johnson also said the following of Smollett’s photographed wounds: “So of course it was staged. The brothers had on gloves during the staged attack where they punched him a little bit. But as far as we can tell, the scratches and bruising that you saw on his face were most likely self-inflicted.”
Also Read: See Jussie Smollett's Mug Shot (Photo)
Chicago Pd released...
- 2/21/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
A press conference is about to get underway in Chicago to discuss the case of Empire star Jussie Smollett. Smollett surrendered to Chicago police yesterday, as he faces a felony criminal charge of disorderly conduct/filing a false police report in connection with his alleged January 29 attack.
Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court.
On Wednesday, Chicago police announced the actor was now officially classified a suspect in a criminal investigation for filing a false police report, which is a Class 4 felony. A Cook County grand jury has since returned an indictment, and Smollett now faces a maximum of three years in prison if found guilty.
His attorneys later issued a statement. “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information,...
Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court.
On Wednesday, Chicago police announced the actor was now officially classified a suspect in a criminal investigation for filing a false police report, which is a Class 4 felony. A Cook County grand jury has since returned an indictment, and Smollett now faces a maximum of three years in prison if found guilty.
His attorneys later issued a statement. “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information,...
- 2/21/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
On Thursday, Empire star Jussie Smollett surrendered to authorities in Chicago. He faces a felony criminal charge of disorderly conduct/filing a false police report in connection with his alleged attack last month.
A press conference will be held at Chicago Pd headquarters at 9 am Ct (10 am Et / 7 am Pt), where Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court. Update: For a full report on the press conference, click here.
On Wednesday, Chicago police announced that the actor was now officially classified a suspect...
A press conference will be held at Chicago Pd headquarters at 9 am Ct (10 am Et / 7 am Pt), where Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court. Update: For a full report on the press conference, click here.
On Wednesday, Chicago police announced that the actor was now officially classified a suspect...
- 2/21/2019
- TVLine.com
Empire actor, Jussie Smollett has been arrested on a Class 4 felony charge for falsifying a police report, according to Chicago police.
The latest twist in the case comes after the actor was charged for filing a false police report about an alleged attack against him on January 29.
"Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives," Chicago Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi tweeted early on Wednesday.
"At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters, Supt Eddie Johnson, Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to the defendants appearance in court."
Related: Empire: Fox Breaks Silence on Jussie Smollett Exit Rumors
"Chicago Police Detectives take #Empire actor #JussieSmollett into custody to face Class 4 Felony charge (punishable for up to 3yrs in prison) for Disorderly Conduct in Falsifying Police report," added Tom Ahern, deputy director - news affairs & communications.
The Chicago Police Department has filed a Class 4 felony...
The latest twist in the case comes after the actor was charged for filing a false police report about an alleged attack against him on January 29.
"Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives," Chicago Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi tweeted early on Wednesday.
"At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters, Supt Eddie Johnson, Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to the defendants appearance in court."
Related: Empire: Fox Breaks Silence on Jussie Smollett Exit Rumors
"Chicago Police Detectives take #Empire actor #JussieSmollett into custody to face Class 4 Felony charge (punishable for up to 3yrs in prison) for Disorderly Conduct in Falsifying Police report," added Tom Ahern, deputy director - news affairs & communications.
The Chicago Police Department has filed a Class 4 felony...
- 2/21/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Empire star Jussie Smollett has surrendered to authorities in Chicago and faces a felony criminal charge of disorderly conduct/filing a false police report in connection with his alleged attack last month.
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the news via Twitter on Thursday. A press conference is expected to be held at Chicago Pd headquarters at 9 am Ct, where Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court.
Press Briefing: Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives. At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters,...
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the news via Twitter on Thursday. A press conference is expected to be held at Chicago Pd headquarters at 9 am Ct, where Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court.
Press Briefing: Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives. At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters,...
- 2/21/2019
- TVLine.com
Update: Smollett has been arrested by by Chicago police and taken into custody. Chicago police confirmed the arrest on social media. Per Variety, A press briefing by Police Supt. Eddie Johnson and Cmdr. Edward Wodnicki will take place later Thursday morning and a bail hearing is expected to be scheduled for 1:30 p.m.
Update: Smollett’s attorneys Todd Pugh and Victor Henderson have issued the following statement to IndieWire through Sharp & Associates PR: “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information, both true and false, has been repeatedly leaked. Given these circumstances, we intend to conduct a thorough investigation and to mount an aggressive defense.”
Update: Multiple outlets, including the New York Times and Chicago Tribune, are now reporting that Smollett has been charged with making a false police report. IndieWire is still...
Update: Smollett’s attorneys Todd Pugh and Victor Henderson have issued the following statement to IndieWire through Sharp & Associates PR: “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information, both true and false, has been repeatedly leaked. Given these circumstances, we intend to conduct a thorough investigation and to mount an aggressive defense.”
Update: Multiple outlets, including the New York Times and Chicago Tribune, are now reporting that Smollett has been charged with making a false police report. IndieWire is still...
- 2/20/2019
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
The two men arrested and questioned as “potential suspects” in the investigation of an attack on “Empire” star Jussie Smollett have been released without charges “due to new evidence,” a Chicago police department spokesman said Friday.
“Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete,” Anthony Guglielmi said on Twitter. No further details were provided.
The men were released about two hours after Cpd announced there would be no news conferences in the Smollett investigation out of respect for the victims of a mass shooting that occurred in the Chicago suburb of Aurora earlier Friday.
Representatives for Smollett did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TheWrap.
Also Read: Drake Documentary Producers Accuse Umg of Trying to Suppress Film in New...
“Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete,” Anthony Guglielmi said on Twitter. No further details were provided.
The men were released about two hours after Cpd announced there would be no news conferences in the Smollett investigation out of respect for the victims of a mass shooting that occurred in the Chicago suburb of Aurora earlier Friday.
Representatives for Smollett did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TheWrap.
Also Read: Drake Documentary Producers Accuse Umg of Trying to Suppress Film in New...
- 2/16/2019
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
Two “potential suspects” brought in for questioning in the investigation of an attack on “Empire” star Jussie Smollett have been placed under arrest, Chicago police said Friday.
Police provided no further details, including specific charges or whether the men were the same two men who were taken into custody as “persons of interest” by Chicago police on Wednesday night.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said Wednesday those men — reportedly two brothers of Nigerian descent who appeared as extras on “Empire” — were not considered suspects at the time. Their attorney Gloria Schmidt did not immediately respond to calls for comment.
Also Read: Fox Says Jussie Smollett Staying on 'Empire'; Chicago Pd Rejects Hoax Reports
Smollett was hospitalized on Jan. 29, saying two men approached him on the streets of Chicago and beat him while shouting racist and homophobic slurs and referencing “Maga.” According to a police statement, the actor reported that...
Police provided no further details, including specific charges or whether the men were the same two men who were taken into custody as “persons of interest” by Chicago police on Wednesday night.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said Wednesday those men — reportedly two brothers of Nigerian descent who appeared as extras on “Empire” — were not considered suspects at the time. Their attorney Gloria Schmidt did not immediately respond to calls for comment.
Also Read: Fox Says Jussie Smollett Staying on 'Empire'; Chicago Pd Rejects Hoax Reports
Smollett was hospitalized on Jan. 29, saying two men approached him on the streets of Chicago and beat him while shouting racist and homophobic slurs and referencing “Maga.” According to a police statement, the actor reported that...
- 2/15/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Fox is standing by Jussie Smollett.
Reports emerged on Thursday night that suggested the Empire star could have staged his attack with the aim of keeping his job on Empire.
"The idea that Jussie Smollett has been, or would be, written off of Empire is patently ridiculous,” reads a statement from 20th Century Fox Television.
“He remains a core player on this very successful series and we continue to stand behind him.”
The comments from Fox came just hours after Bob Elgas, a reporter for ABC7 Chicago shared that, according to his sources, two persons of interest were being questioned about the alleged attack, and that the line of questioning surrounded Smollett conspiring with the pair to stage the attack.
"Breaking: Multiple soucres tell @ABC7Chicago Eyewitness News Jussie Smollet and the 2 men who are being questioned by police staged the attack – allegedly because his character was being written out of the show Empire,...
Reports emerged on Thursday night that suggested the Empire star could have staged his attack with the aim of keeping his job on Empire.
"The idea that Jussie Smollett has been, or would be, written off of Empire is patently ridiculous,” reads a statement from 20th Century Fox Television.
“He remains a core player on this very successful series and we continue to stand behind him.”
The comments from Fox came just hours after Bob Elgas, a reporter for ABC7 Chicago shared that, according to his sources, two persons of interest were being questioned about the alleged attack, and that the line of questioning surrounded Smollett conspiring with the pair to stage the attack.
"Breaking: Multiple soucres tell @ABC7Chicago Eyewitness News Jussie Smollet and the 2 men who are being questioned by police staged the attack – allegedly because his character was being written out of the show Empire,...
- 2/15/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
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