Anyone who knows the background of “Empire” knows the character of Jamal (Jussie Smollett) was Lee Daniels’ favorite character. Elements of Daniels’ own past, and experiences, as a gay man were portrayed through Jamal. The infamous trashcan scene was Daniels’ true story.
In real life, Jussie Smollett is openly gay, and Lee Daniels was very supportive of his lifestyle. When “Empire” did media rounds, often Daniels would travel with Smollett. Case and point is the interview they did, just last year, about the upcoming season.
This past season of “Empire” was tanked, due to Jussie Smollett’s claims of being beaten in Chicago. Because of how odd the circumstances were, the “Empire” cast and crew were silent about the situation. With “Empire” now cancelled and Smollett looking like a liar, many are blaming him for the cancellation.
Recently, Lee Daniels sat down with Vulture, speaking on many things, Jussie Smollett among them. When speaking on Smollett, Daniels said he was “very embarrassed” for supporting him, and his claims. As evidence comes in, it does indeed look as if Smollett staged the entire setup.
Source: Vulture
