Jussie Smollett Biography: Wife, Net Worth, Instagram, Age, Siblings, Documentary, Movies, Parents, TV Shows

Biography

Jussie Smollett (born June 21, 1982) is a multifaceted American artist. He is a versatile actor, songwriter, and singer.

Jussie Smollett‘s journey began as a child actor, debuting in the beloved film The Mighty Ducks in 1991. Since then, he has graced both the small and big screens with his presence, starring in the short-lived ABC sitcom On Our Own and notable films like Rob Reiner‘s North and The Skinny. His performances showcased his range and undeniable talent.

However, his role as musician Jamal Lyon in the hit Fox drama series Empire solidified Jussie Smollett‘s place in the spotlight. Portraying the gifted and complex character, he garnered critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series in 2017. His portrayal captivated audiences and showcased his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters.

Jussie Smollett
Jussie Smollett: History ‧ Bio ‧ Photo
Wiki Facts & About Data
Full Name:	Jussie Smollett
Born:	21 June 1982 (age 41 years old)
Place of Birth:	Santa Rosa, California, United States
Education:	American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Nationality:	American
Height:	1.82 m
Parents:	Joel Smollett, Janet Smollett
Siblings:	Jurnee Smollett, Jazz Smollett, Jocqui Smollett, Jojo Smollett, Jake Smollett
Spouse:	Not Married
Girlfriend • Partner:	Raven-Symoné (2007-2011)
Children:	N/A
Occupation:	Actor • Singer
Net Worth:	$500,000-$1 million

Early Life & Education

Jussie Smollett is a talented artist born in Santa Rosa, California, on June 21, 1982. He carries a rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped his artistic path and infused his perspective with depth and nuance.

Growing up as the youngest of six siblings, including Jurnee Smollett, Jazz Smollett, Jocqui Smollett, Jojo Smollett, and Jake Smollett, Jussie Smollett‘s family dynamic is a vibrant blend of cultures. His mother, Janet Smollett‘s African American heritage intermingles with his Jewish father, Joel Smollett‘s lineage, forging a unique identity that defies simplistic categorization. He humorously recounts his father’s stance against being labeled as merely “white,” emphasizing the richness and complexity of his heritage.

Jussie Smollett‘s journey led him from Santa Rosa to the diverse landscapes of Elmhurst, Queens, in New York City, and eventually to the sun-drenched embrace of Los Angeles. He honed his creative gifts and discovered his true self along this path. After completing his education at Paramus Catholic High School in New Jersey, Jussie fearlessly embraced his identity as a gay man, a revelation shared with his supportive parents at nineteen.

The performing arts beckoned Jussie Smollett with a magnetic pull, propelling him to the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. Immersed in the transformative power of acting, he emerged from this crucible of talent in 2004, equipped with the skills and passion to carve his own path in the entertainment industry.

Career

Jussie Smollett‘s artistic journey began in the bustling streets of New York City, where he took his first steps as a child model. The year 1992 marked his introduction to the world of television, as he graced the screen with his presence in an episode of the acclaimed soap opera Guiding Light. This early foray into acting laid the foundation for a captivating career.

In 1994, Jussie Smollett embarked on a shared adventure with his real-life siblings in the ABC sitcom On Our Own. Together, they brought laughter and heart to audiences, showcasing their undeniable chemistry. Although the show was short-lived, its impact resonated with viewers captivated by the genuine bond between the talented Smollett siblings.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Jussie Smollett‘s star continued rising as he left his mark on the silver screen and television. Notable appearances in films like The Mighty Ducks and Rob Reiner‘s North demonstrated his versatility as an actor while recurring roles in acclaimed shows such as The Mindy Project and Revenge showcased his ability to inhabit diverse characters with authenticity and depth.

However, his role as Jamal Lyon in the Fox drama series Empire propelled Jussie Smollett to new heights of recognition. With his portrayal of the musically gifted Jamal, he captivated audiences with his soulful performances and garnered critical acclaim. Award nominations, including the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, affirmed his talent and contribution to the show.

Yet, Jussie Smollett‘s career trajectory took an unexpected turn in January 2019 when he reported a distressing incident to the police. His account detailed a brutal attack fueled by homophobic and racist motives. The nation rallied around him, commending his bravery in the face of such hatred and standing in solidarity against discrimination.

However, as the investigation unfolded, a different narrative emerged. In February 2019, authorities revealed that Jussie Smollett allegedly orchestrated the incident. This revelation sent shockwaves through the public sphere, leaving many bewildered and questioning the motives behind such a perplexing turn. Legal repercussions followed, leading to a conviction for disorderly conduct.

Awards & Nominations

Awards

• 2017 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
• 2017 People’s Choice Award for Favorite New TV Drama Actor
• 2017 Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor: Drama
• 2018 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
• 2018 People’s Choice Award for Favorite TV Drama Actor
• 2018 Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor: Drama

Nominations

Jussie Smollett has also been nominated for numerous other awards, including:

• 2016 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
• 2016 Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Series, Miniseries or Television Film
• 2016 Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series

Social Media

• Twitter: @JussieSmollett
• Instagram: @jussiesmollett
• Facebook: @JussieSmollett

Personal Life

Jussie Smollett is Jewish and biracial. His father is Jewish, and his mother is African-American. He has not spoken publicly about the attack since his conviction. He is currently serving his sentence in Cook County Jail.

Jussie Smollett was once in a relationship with Raven-Symoné, an American actress, from 2007 to 2011. He is not married and has no child.

Filmography 

• The Mighty Ducks (1992)
• North (1994)
• On Our Own (1994-1995)
• Coach (1993)
• The Skinny (2012)
• Revenge (2014)
• Empire (2015-2019)
• B-Boy Blues (2021)
• America Divided (2018)
• Giants (2017-2018)
• 90 Days (2016)
• Smollett Eats (2016)
• Sacred Heart (2015)

Net Worth

Jussie Smollett‘s accumulated net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 to $1 million. This is a significant decrease from his net worth in 2019, estimated at around $4 million. 

The decline in Jussie Smollett‘s net worth is due to a number of factors, including his highly publicized arrest and conviction for staging a hate crime.