25 Fascinating Facts About Jussie Smollett You Should Know

Already a recognizable actor from his role on popular drama series Empire, Jussie Smollet garnered heightened attention after his reportedly attacked in a hate crime by two strangers, and then came under fire in the media when the authenticity of the attack came into question. Whether a supporter or not, none can deny that recent headlines have made Smollet a household name. But outside of the scandal and bad press, what do you actually know about the actor and singer? Take a few moments to learn more with these 25 fascinating facts about Jussie Smollet you should definitely know.

Jussie was born in Santa Rosa, California, and is the third of six children.

Jussie began his acting career as a child star in the 1992 film The Mighty Ducks.

In addition to acting and singing, Jussie is also a photographer.

Jussie’s net worth is estimated at $500 thousand.

Smollett is bi-racial, with an African American mother and a Jewish father with Russian and Polish roots.

His mother Jane Smollet was active with the Black Panther party during the civil rights era and marching alongside many well-known activities like Angela Davis.

Jussie’s mother is actually good friends with Angela Davis, and Jussie has had a direct impact in his upbringing from the activist.

Jussie has won four NAACP Image Awards, including one for his role in Empire.

Smollett openly identifies as gay, and first came out to his parents at age 19, and to the public on an interview with TV talk show host Ellen DeGeneres in 2015.