Nearly five years ago, Jussie Smollett became Hollywood’s darling, as the breakout star of “Empire,” the most-popular show in TV history. As their record ratings ended, Jussie Smollett fell from grace. For a time, nearly every “Empire” episode revolved around him, but that changed.
Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson remained the leads on the show, being paired with the likes of Nia Long and Taye Diggs. Also, such co-stars as Trai Byers and Bryshere “Yazz” Gray commanded bigger storylines. This meant less of Smollett, but he returned to headlines.
The Chicago assault situation happened and after it was ruled to be a hoax, Jussie Smollett faced major backlash. Some accused Jussie of staging the assault to bring publicity to himself, and, when “Empire” got cancelled, many blamed him. Whatever the case, “Empire” is going out with a bang, and “The Breakfast Club’s” rumor report says Jussie Smollett may return for the series finale.
