Jussie Smollett's journey has been anything but ordinary. Six years after a highly publicized hate crime controversy that shook the nation, the 'Special Forces' star is back in the spotlight, declaring he's "happy to be doing cool stuff" and that simply, "life goes on." But here's where it gets controversial... how do we reconcile his pursuit of a normal life with the cloud of doubt that still hangs over him?
Smollett's recent stint on 'Special Forces: World's Toughest Test' was cut short in Season 4, Episode 3 when a lung infection forced his medical withdrawal. While his time on the show was brief, it offered a platform for him to address the past and present a side of himself the public rarely sees.
Despite his early exit, Smollett, who was visibly determined to succeed, expressed his disappointment. He admitted to initial "horror" at being forced to leave, but his mood quickly shifted after being accommodated in a luxurious bed and breakfast. He was even treated to one of the "greatest meals of [his] life" after enduring days of harsh conditions in the Moroccan desert.
"At that moment, I said, ‘Come on, lung infection!'" Smollett joked during a Zoom interview with Decider, showcasing a touch of self-deprecating humor.
Throughout his time on the FOX series, the actor didn't shy away from discussing the 2019 incident that dramatically altered his life. Six years prior, Smollett reported to the Chicago Police Department that he had been the victim of a hate crime. He claimed two masked men attacked him, tied a rope around his neck, and made references to MAGA (President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan). The alleged attack sparked outrage and a nationwide conversation about hate crimes.
However, the narrative took a sharp turn when prosecutors accused Smollett of orchestrating the attack himself, alleging that he paid his assailants to stage the entire incident. And this is the part most people miss... the complexities of the legal proceedings and the conflicting evidence presented. Despite vehemently maintaining his innocence, Smollett faced multiple counts of disorderly conduct for allegedly filing a false police report.
The case ultimately went to trial in 2021, resulting in Smollett's conviction and a sentence of 150 days in jail. He served six days behind bars before the guilty verdict was overturned in November 2024. The legal saga remains a point of contention, with many questioning the fairness and validity of the proceedings.
On 'Special Forces,' Smollett continued to assert his innocence, acknowledging that public perception will always be divided. "I think that everybody, whether they believe the truth or whether they believe the other stuff, has their own opinion," he stated. "If you know anything about it, chances are you have an opinion or an idea of what you believe. I think that at this point, I’m okay with that because I have to be. I have to be because life goes on.”
Now, Smollett says he's focused on moving forward and is "happy to be doing cool stuff" like participating in 'Special Forces.' "I was afraid that maybe I would have more regrets about putting myself out there in this way. But I don’t," he said, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and expressing emotions. "[I]t’s okay to be vulnerable and it’s okay to show that you have a heart."
During his interview with Decider, Smollett also touched upon Eva Marcille's near-drowning experience during a challenge on 'Special Forces.' He also addressed the possibility of appearing on the show again, this time alongside his sister, Jurnee Smollett-Bell.
Here are some key takeaways from the interview:
On his health after leaving the show: Smollett clarified that his departure was due to coughing and sneezing up dirt and dust to the point he could not breathe. He stated he started strong, then felt he embarrassed himself and lost for his teammates with the airplane thing, because he couldn’t open his eyes on the water.
On the DS (Directing Staff) and opening up about the controversy: Smollett felt he opened up more to the producer in the pre-conversation. He also felt guarded about the DS because they didn’t really let on how much they knew. He said that he had preconceived notions about people having preconceived notions about him. He was happily wrong to see that most people are decent people.
Response to critics of his appearance on 'Special Forces': Smollett believes everyone is entitled to their own opinion and we need to allow people to feel the way they feel. He is just happy to be doing cool stuff.
Eva Marcille's near-drowning experience: Smollett described the moment when Eva nearly drowned during the water submersion test. He didn't realize how bad it was until Rudy Reyes told Eva she had actually passed out.
A potential season with his sister Jurnee: Smollett believes his sister Jurnee would "kill it" on 'Special Forces,' but doesn't think she will ever participate. He also confirmed he will never do it again either.
Future reality show appearances: Smollett joked about wanting to be a guest on 'Baddies' on Zeus, but confirmed 'Special Forces' was a wrap on him.
Smollett's story is a complex tapestry of fame, controversy, and resilience. His willingness to step back into the public eye raises important questions about forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring power of public opinion. It also highlights the challenges faced by individuals navigating the aftermath of highly publicized scandals. Do you think he deserves a second chance in the spotlight? Has he fully addressed the concerns surrounding the 2019 incident? Or should he remain out of the public eye? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
