Challenges in the Life of Jussie Smollett in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Jussie Smollett faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Jussie Smollett is an American actor and singer known for his early roles as a child actor, debuting in "The Mighty Ducks" (1992), and his portrayal of Jamal Lyon in the Fox drama series "Empire" from 2015 to 2019.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2007: Arrested for DUI

In 2007, Jussie Smollett pleaded no contest to providing false information to law enforcement, driving with a blood alcohol level over the legal limit, and driving without a valid driver's license, resulting from a DUI stop. He was sentenced to a fine and three years of probation.

January 2019: Reported Hate Crime

In January 2019, Jussie Smollett claimed to be a victim of a hate crime, but police later determined he staged the attack.

January 29, 2019: Reported Attack

On January 29, 2019, Jussie Smollett reported to police that he was physically attacked and subjected to racial and homophobic slurs outside his apartment building.

February 20, 2019: Charged with Filing False Police Report

On February 20, 2019, Jussie Smollett was charged by a grand jury with a class 4 felony for filing a false police report.

April 12, 2019: City of Chicago Filed Lawsuit

On April 12, 2019, the city of Chicago filed a lawsuit against Jussie Smollett to recover the $130,105.15 in overtime costs spent investigating the alleged hoax.

June 2019: Foxx requested independent inquiry

In June 2019, after allegations of favoritism and leniency were made against the prosecutor, Kim Foxx, Foxx asked the state to conduct an independent inquiry by a special investigator.

November 2019: Smollett Filed Countersuit

In November 2019, Jussie Smollett filed a countersuit against the city of Chicago, claiming he was the victim of "mass public ridicule and harm."

February 11, 2020: Smollett Re-Indicted

On February 11, 2020, after further investigation by a special prosecutor, Jussie Smollett was re-indicted by a Cook County grand jury on six counts of felony disorderly conduct for making four false police reports.