Jussie Smollet Will Not Return to ‘Empire’

Fox Entertainment have announced that while Empire has been renewed for a sixth season, Jussie Smollett’s character will not be returning, reports Reuters.

The announcement came yesterday (April 30) with a statement from the studio: “By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett’s option for season six, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to Empire.”

Jussie Smollett has been accused by the Chicago police of faking his own hate crime. He has since had the charges dropped on the condition he doesn’t receive his bail money back. The Chicago police have vehemently maintained that Smollett is guilty.

Smollett’s representatives have responded to Fox’s announcement with their own statement: “We’ve been told that Jussie will not be on Empire in the beginning of the season but he appreciates they have extended his contract to keep Jamal’s future open.

“Most importantly he is grateful to Fox and Empire leadership, cast, crew and fans for their unwavering support.”

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