With Criminal Charges Dropped, Is Jussie Smollett’s Career Permanently Damaged?

With Criminal Charges Dropped, Is Jussie Smollett’s Career Permanently Damaged?

Latest Update

In November 2024, the Illinois Supreme Court overturned Jussie Smollett's conviction for staging a hate crime against himself in 2019. The court ruled that the second prosecution violated Smollett's due process rights, as the initial charges had been dropped in 2019 following an agreement with prosecutors.

Despite this legal development, Smollett's public image remains tarnished. The controversy surrounding the hoax continues to overshadow his career, and his association with the incident persists in the public's perception. The entertainment industry remains cautious, with studios and fellow actors hesitant to collaborate with him due to the potential risks to their reputations.

While the legal system has addressed the procedural aspects of Smollett's case, the broader societal implications endure. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact that public trust and credibility have on an individual's career and the entertainment industry's willingness to engage with them.

Original article from March 2019

Infuriating Chicago’s mayor and police chief, prosecutors abruptly dropped all charges against Jussie Smollett on Tuesday after the “Empire” actor accused of faking a racist, anti-gay attack on himself agreed to let the city keep his $10,000 in bail. But he maintained his innocence and insisted he was attacked. Prosecutors said they still believe Smollett concocted the assault.

Jussie Smollett’s career is over - there will be no comeback.

With Criminal Charges Dropped, Is Jussie Smollett’s Career Permanently Damaged?

In the court of public opinion, Smollett is guilty for orchestrating an attack on himself which could have potentially triggered civil unrest. An actor’s marketability and value is largely based on their favorability perception in public.

As of right now, Smollett is not in good graces with the masses. The March 20 episode of “Empire” of was the lowest rated in the series’ history.

If in the near future Smollett were to give a series of “Oscar deserving” performances in any of his roles, could that shift public opinion? No.

If Smollett were to run into a burning building and save children, kittens, and puppies - would that shift public opinion? No. In fact, I would bet that the first public reaction would be that Smollett set the fire himself.

Smollett will always be known for and affiliated with his most recent brush with the law. His brand is toxic.

Also, I imagine that fellow actors and studios would be very hesitant about hiring or working with Smollett at this point. Some may say Smollett is too much of a risk and liability. Why would they feel inclined to take an unnecessary chance?

CommPRO Editorial
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