Taraji P. Henson Assures Fans Jussie Smollett Will NOT Be Fired From ‘Empire’

Taraji P. Henson Assures Fans That Jussie Smollett Will Not Be Fired From ‘Empire’ [VIDEO]

FOX’s hit series Empire recently returned from hiatus to finish up the second half of its current fifth season, however fans are focused on season six, specifically if series co-star Jussie Smollett will be apart of it. Actress Taraji P. Henson just gave fans a reason to breathe a sigh of relief, as she just confirmed that Smollett is staying put with the series for the foreseeable future.

While Empire fans are still trying to solve the season-long mystery of which Lyon family member is lying in the casket, thus ending their time on the show, Taraji P. Henson has confirmed that the suspected family member is definitely not Jussie Smollett, who plays middle son Jamal.

Empire

Henson was very optimistic in discussing Empire’s expected sixth season, although the series hasn’t been formally renewed at press time.

Speaking of Smollett, Henson stated:

“I talk to Jussie all the time, and he’s doing well. We’re all doing well. The show is doing well. We’re on hiatus right now. The writers are trying to figure out what the next season is going to look like, what our storyline is going to be. They’re trying to drum up some really good juicy stuff for you guys.”

When asked if Smollett will officially return to the series, Henson responded:

“Yes, I haven’t heard anything else.”

Smollett, as you know, recently had all 16 felony counts against him dropped and his record cleared, following an attack that he described to authorities as a hate crime.

However, despite being legally in the clear, he has been ordered to pay $130K to the city of Chicago.

Empire has been suffering in the ratings in the last few weeks, perhaps this confirmation from Henson that fan favorite Smollett is not being fired, will have viewers tuning into the show in mass numbers like in the past.

Are you surprised Jussie Smollett will remain on Empire? Let us know in the comments!