BY IKENNA OBIOHA
Three weeks ago, the internet proliferated the #justiceforjesse in solidarity for the Empire actor Jussie Smollett who suffered a homophobic attack.
With two Nigerian brothers, Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo linked to the assault, one would think the Chicago police department are near the end of their investigation. However, in a new twist, the alleged attackers have implicated Smollett, saying that he orchestrated the entire drama. Following their revelation, the brothers were released without charges. What would all these mean for recurring Empire star if all goes left, and he’s found guilty?
Dent on his career
Jamal, the character he plays on the successful series that is in its fifth season is a lovable one, so much, people no longer see the difference between the star and the role he plays. If he is found guilty by the end of the investigation, chances are that he will lose his credibility in the public eyes, a perception that may lead to a slow death of his acting career.
Also, the two brothers who attacked him have in the past had contact with the star allegedly, and one of them even played as an extra on the Empire set. So, it all makes sense that there is a chance he might have been a major player in his own attack. This is not to say he’s guilty yet, it only means he’s no longer perceived as a victim that much.
A big L for the LGBT community
Smollett is considered a double minor: he is black and gay. With popularity gained from Empire, he poses as the perfect poster child who projects their values and struggles to other communities. In a case where he is found wanting in terms of the claims now levelled against him, the entire LGBT community will feel the ripple effect. For one, attacks against them will never be taken seriously, and when considered, will be taken with a grain of salt.
In a recently released statement from Smollett’s lawyer, he said:
“As a victim of a hate crime who has cooperated with the police investigation, Jussie Smollett is angered and devastated by recent reports that the perpetrators are individuals he is familiar with,” he continued. “He has now been further victimized by claims attributed to these alleged perpetrators that Jussie played a role in his own attack. Nothing is further from the truth and anyone claiming otherwise is lying.”
Smollett’s case now lie in the hands of a grand jury that has been set up to look into the assault case.
