Yesterday “Variety” dropped a story that the writers of Empire were mulling over bringing back Jussie Smollett for its final season. The actor does have his contract optioned in case they want to use him but it has been reported on numerous occasions that his return would be unlikely. Yesterday was the first time a story contradicted that notion but Empire creator Lee Daniels was quick to dismiss the story and insisted that Smollett will not be back.
Here is what Daniels posted on his official Twitter page:
@Variety @JoeOtterson This is not factual. Jussie will NOT be returning to Empire. -LD
— Lee Daniels (@leedanielsent) June 4, 2019
Lee Daniels was once a public and vocal supporter for Smollett after the alleged hate crime against the actor took place. He posted an emotional video on his Instagram page in support of Jussie but when news surfaced that it may all be a hoax, Daniels deleted the video from his Instagram and hasn’t really shown much public support for the actor. In March, Daniels posted an emotional video on social media in which he spoke about the “pain and anger” he has felt since Smollett was accused of a hate crime hoax in January. Following the alleged incident and subsequent arrest in Chicago, the actor did not appear on the show’s final two episodes of the fifth season.
The “Variety” story also hinted that the mostly African American talent in front of the camera still seems to believe that Smollett is innocent while the mostly Caucasian behind the scenes crew think he lied and this led to a lot of tension towards the end of season 5. The article seemed to suggest that the higher-ups believed that tensions would ease during the break before the series’ final season but Daniels has seemed to put an end to that speculation.
Despite all 16 felony charges against Smollett being dropped, the release of court documents last week has shined more of a negative light on the actor as they reveal the detailed investigation into the incident and Smollett’s reactions and demeanor during the process. Many believe the documents really point to his guilt and in the court of public opinion, Smollett is still viewed in a negative light. With all of the drama surrounding him, it would likely overshadow the final season of the show and Fox has insisted they want to give the series the send-off it deserves.
