Jussie Smollett Makes His Way Back To The Big Screen Amid His Hate Crime Hoax Conviction Appeal

Despite his ongoing legal problems, Jussie Smollett remains dedicated to his craft.

On Saturday, Vivica A. Fox uploaded photos to Instagram wishing Smollett a Happy Birthday while congratulating him on their upcoming film “The Lost Holiday,” in Orange County, California, according to TMZ.

The post was captioned, “ GM Dawlings! #SatSmiles & #SatSalute Screaming Happy Belated Bday to my 4EVA Nephew @jussiesmollett WE DID IT! “MR DIRECTOR” I’m soo PROUD of you & had the best time working & producing our new project 2gether! LUVS YA TONS! 😘 Stay tuned 4 more info on our FAB project! #LifeIsGood #GodIsGood #Blessed #Respect#VivicaFoxHair #TeamVivica #TeamFox # #MyGrindDontStop #LegitimateCareers #BossMoves#LoveWins #Family1st #FamilyStrong #FilmLife #Producer#ClassicBadChick

Taking on the dual roles of director and actor, Smollett leads the film that also features his former “Empire” co-star Vivica A. Fox.

In the images, the actor can be seen holding a camera and engaged in conversation with Fox. Another photo shows him exuding joy as he stands alongside the production crew. Smollett previously ventured into directing with his debut film “B-Boy Blues.”

Since 2019, Smollett has been entangled in a legal battle. During that time, he made headlines by alleging that he was attacked in Chicago by two individuals who identified as MAGA supporters. According to his account, Smollett claimed they assaulted him by placing a noose around his neck, pouring bleach on him, and subjecting him to physical blows while using racist and homophobic slurs. However, investigations into the incident revealed that Smollett had orchestrated the entire incident and enlisted the help of two acquaintances, Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, to stage the hate crime.

In December 2021, Smollett faced a jury trial and was found guilty of five counts of felony disorderly conduct for fabricating police reports. A few months later, he received 30 months of felony probation, along with 150 days of jail time and a requirement to pay over $120,000 in restitution to the Chicago Police Department. He was also fined an additional $25,000.

Initally, Smollett served six days of his 150-day jail sentence before being released. Subsequently, his legal team filed an appeal in an effort to overturn his conviction and avoid further incarceration. The appeal filing, which was originally due in March 2023, received five extensions.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vivica A Fox (@msvfox)