Lena Waithe, John Legend, Zendaya and more react to Jussie Smollett's brutal attack
The actor was attacked in Chicago on Tuesday morning.
News broke Tuesday morning (Jan. 29) that “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett was hospitalized after suffering a brutal attack. The crime is being referred to by Chicago police as a possible hate crime and an investigation is now underway.
According to reports, the two suspects yelled racial and homophobic slurs toward him before punching him and pouring an unknown chemical substance over him. Police also stated that at one point during the assault, one of the two suspects wrapped a rope around the actor’s neck.
Smollett was hospitalized for his injuries but has since been released and is said to be in “good condition.” Like his character Jamal Lyon on “Empire,” Smollett identifies as gay.
Since news of his attack began circulating, thousands have taken to social media to express their support for the actor, as well as call for the suspects to be put to justice as swiftly as possible.
“This is heartbreaking and terrifying…please pay attention to what’s happening here. Sending all my love to @JussieSmollett,” Zendaya wrote on Twitter.
John Legend vocalized his support, writing, “Sending love to Jussie and the Smollett family after this horrific attack. We support you and pray that you find peace and justice.”
Others such as Janet Mock, Andy Cohen, Kerry Washington and Robin Thede, to name a few, have also taken to Twitter to send love to Smollett. A representative for Smollett has not yet issued a statement on the matter at the time of this report.
See more reactions to the news of Jussie Smollett being attacked in the tweets below.