Jussie Smollett's criminal trial over alleged hate crime begins. Here's what you need to know
Actor Jussie Smollett is facing a criminal trial this week in a case involving as many plot twists as featured on his former Fox music TV drama, "Empire."
The long-standing case, which began jury selection on Monday, stems from a Jan. 29, 2019, incident in which the actor reported to Chicago police that he was a victim of a racist and homophobic attack while walking in his affluent Chicago neighborhood. He alleged that on that frigid night, two assailants beat him and put a rope around his neck.
But as details emerged, Smollett was accused of orchestrating the attack.
With Smollett back in the spotlight, here are some questions and answers to get you caught up on the protracted case.
Who is Jussie Smollett?
The embattled artist is a 39-year-old actor and musician whose star was on the rise when he was allegedly attacked in 2019. (He performed at the Troubadour in West Hollywood just days after the alleged assault, telling the sold-out crowd, "I'm OK.")
He's the brother of actor Jurnee Smollett ("Lovecraft Country," "Birds of Prey")
