Jussie Smollett – Star Luxia

Jussie Smollett
American
June 21, 1982
Actor, Singer

Biography

Jussie Langston Mikha Smollett is an American actor, singer, filmmaker, and producer whose career began as a child performer before developing into work across television, film, and music. Born on June 21, 1982, in Santa Rosa, California, Smollett appeared in films and television productions during the 1990s, including The Mighty Ducks, Queen, and the family sitcom On Our Own, where he starred alongside his siblings.

After taking an extended break from acting, Smollett returned to entertainment through music and independent film. He released the Poisoned Hearts Club EP in 2012 and appeared in projects including The Skinny, The Mindy Project, and Revenge. His career reached a major turning point in 2015 when he was cast as Jamal Lyon in Fox's musical drama series Empire.

As Jamal Lyon, Smollett became one of the show's most recognizable performers, while also showcasing his abilities as a singer and songwriter. Several songs he performed on Empire, including “You're So Beautiful” and “Keep Your Money,” gained chart attention. He subsequently signed a recording deal with Columbia Records and released his debut studio album, Sum of My Music, in 2018.

Outside Empire, Smollett has appeared in films including Alien: Covenant (2017), Marshall (2017), and B-Boy Blues (2021). He has also expanded into filmmaking, serving as a director and producer on various projects. His work has demonstrated his versatility across acting, music, writing, and production.

Smollett has received several award nominations and honors, including NAACP Image Awards for his work connected to Empire. In 2016, he won NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding New Artist and Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration, among other recognition connected to the series and its music.

Despite significant controversy surrounding the 2019 Chicago incident and subsequent legal proceedings, Smollett has consistently maintained his innocence. His 2021 conviction was ultimately overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2024 on grounds related to the prosecution process. He has continued working in entertainment, including acting and filmmaking, maintaining a career that spans more than three decades.