Things to Do
Things to Do

Celebrities tweet support to ‘Empire’ star Jussie Smollett after brutal attack

FBI reportedly has joined the investigation into possible hate crime after actor says he received a threatening letter before the attack

‘Empire’ Star Jussie Smollett Hospitalized After Apparent Hate Crime The actor transported himself to the hospital early Tuesday morning after what the Chicago Police Department say was a “possible racially-charged assault and battery." A 911 call reveals Smollett was assaulted after leaving his apartment. The police statement says the assaulters gained his attention by “yelling out racial and homophobic slurs towards him.” The Chicago Police Department, via statement The Chicago Police Department,
By
Jan 30, 2019

Hollywood is rallying behind “Empire” star Jussie Smollett after the actor was brutally attacked Tuesday in Chicago in what police are investigating as a possible hate crime.

Smollett, 36, was walking around 2 a.m., police said, when two people he didn't know started yelling racial and homophobic slurs at him, ABC 7 in Chicago reported.

After being verbally accosted, the two men allegedly struck Smollett in the face with their hands and poured a chemical on him, ABC 7 reported. Police said one attacker wrapped a rope around Smollett’s neck before the two ran away.

ABC News has now reported the FBI is stepping in because of a mailed threat sent to the star eight days ago.

Once news of the attack broke, celebrities and politicians turned out on social media to support Smollett, and to condemn racist and homophobic attacks.

MORE: AJC interview with Jussie Smollett

About the Author

Nancy Clanton is a lead producer for The AJC's platforms team, but also writes stories about health, travel, events and entertainment. A native of Knoxville and graduate of the University of Tennessee, she has worked at the AJC for 24 years.

Follow Nancy Clanton on twitter
More Stories

The Latest

Boasting an assertive tannic tang, a dash of ground sumac kicks up a broad range of dishes, from hummus and feta to meat marinades and fattoush. (Courtesy photo)

Credit: Handout

Where can I find it?

15 family-friendly things to do in metro Atlanta this weekend

David Byrne brings mix of quirky art and music to the Fox Theatre

Featured

Fans celebrate in the stands after Cape Verde defeated Eswatini in a World Cup qualifying soccer match at Estádio Nacional in Praia, Cape Verde, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, to clinch their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. (Cristiano Barbosa/AP)

Credit: AP

A tiny nation qualified for its first World Cup. Cape Verde has fans here

Cape Verde, competing in its first World Cup, will take on the world's No. 1 team in Spain at 12 p.m. on June 15 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Georgia’s special ed program promised help. Families say it delivered them harm.

Georgia subdues a nemesis in rolling past Crimson Tide for SEC championship

Georgia notched its best win of the season at the perfect time, finally vanquishing Alabama in Atlanta and taking home the SEC Championship for the second straight year.