Actor Jussie Smollett’s legal saga has taken a decisive turn as an Illinois appeals court has upheld his conviction for orchestrating a hoax attack, dealing a blow to his efforts to overturn the verdict.
The ruling was delivered by a three-judge panel on Friday, with a 2-1 vote confirming Jussie’s conviction, as per legal documents obtained by TMZ. Consequently, it appears increasingly probable that the actor will have to return to Chicago’s Cook County Jail to complete his 150-day sentence.
Initially convicted in 2022, Jussie spent six days in custody before being released while pursuing an appeal to overturn the sentence. Despite his efforts during the appeal process, the court’s decision has left Jussie with few options, although his legal team retains the possibility of appealing this ruling to the Illinois Supreme Court. However, this would necessitate the high court agreeing to review the case.
Amid the legal battle, Jussie engaged in various activities, including the release of new music, directing a film alongside Vivica A. Fox, workout sessions with Taraji P. Henson, a stint in rehab, and a significant change in appearance, having shaved his head.
As the legal drama unfolds, the possibility of Jussie seeking another appeal or heading back to jail remains uncertain, leaving his future in limbo. The case continues to draw public attention, and observers eagerly await the next steps in the proceedings.