Trigger warning: This article contains references to physical assault.
As the saying goes, “A friend in need is a friend indeed,” this was certainly proven by Jussie Smollett’s family and friends, including Taraji P. Henson, who pleaded guilty to an alleged hate crime in 2019. Had supported him during his difficult times after the incident of attack. In an interview with People magazine, Smollett talked about their unwavering support and also discussed his new film, The Lost Holiday, which he co-wrote and directed.
During the interview, talking about the film’s reception, Smollett said, “I don’t know if I was surprised, but I’m very grateful.” The actor shared that he is an extremely grateful person and is grateful just to be physically present, emphasizing that he did not take it lightly.
Smollett said the film is full of hope, “I think that’s really what I take from this movie for my life: It’s very optimistic. It’s like, ‘Okay, what’s the next day going to be like? What? ‘Who is going to bring it tomorrow?’ It may bring something great, it may bring something not so great, but it’s about how you handle it.”
Smollett talked about the support he has received from his friends and family during his interview with the outlet. He expressed that just as his loved ones protected and defended him, he felt a deep desire to do the same for him. He also acknowledged how difficult it was to go against the prevailing “narrative” that many people believed.
Smollett specifically mentioned her friend and Empire co-star, Taraji P. Henson, saying she was there for her from day one.
The On Our Own star revealed that the Karate Kid actress often calls her his “sister” and asks her to spend time with him. He further added that she has been like his “heart” and described him as one of his favorite people with a kind heart and honest soul.
Smollett added, “She would be the first person to say, ‘Stay right, stay right with your soul. Stay true to your soul.’ And he is right. I love that woman.” He met his aunt Vivica A. Fox, who plays Cassandra opposite him in his latest project.
He shared that Fox showed incredible support, understanding, and “love” for the film, and said that the project would not have been successful without their involvement.
The actor told the publication that his “village” of supporters meant “everything” to him during the difficult period he endured. When others made her feel like she had no value and was not worthy of love, her supporters reminded her that she was truly loved.
He described the experience as “healing”, and said that for the past six years he had feared he would never feel like himself again. He added, “And I have, and I know it’s because of my family.”
For those unaware, in 2019 Smollett alleged that two men attacked him while returning home from a Subway sandwich shop in New York. However, after investigation, authorities claimed that the incident was staged by Smollett to attract media attention.
In 2021, he was found guilty of five felony counts of disorderly conduct for making false reports to investigators, though he has continued to maintain his original claims. According to the outlet, he has since appealed the decision to the Illinois Supreme Court.
General Disclaimer: If you need support or you know someone who is struggling with domestic violence or assault or abuse, please contact your nearest mental health expert, NGO or talk to someone about it. There are many helplines available for this,
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