Empire Star Jussie Smollett Confirms He's Gay

As Empire continues to break TV records, much of the media attention has turned to the hit series’ youngest cast members, Trai Byers (Andre), Bryshere Gray (Hakeem), and most notably Jussie Smollett, who plays budding gay R&B star Jamal Lyon.

In real life, Smollett's sexuality has been a topic of conversation, and now he's setting the record straight.

In an interview with Ellen DeGeneres conducted backstage at Ellen, he confirmed that he is gay and explained why he's never felt the need to discuss his personal life.

"There's never been a closet. That I've been in. I don't own a closet, I got a dresser, but I don't have a closet, but I have a home and that is my responsibility to protect that home. ... So that's why I choose not to talk about my personal life. But there is without a doubt, no closet that I've ever been in, and I just wanted to make that clear, but it was most important for me to make that clear to you on your show at this time in the world. And that's where I'm at. ... So, let's not read into it in the wrong way when I say that I don't talk about my personal life, I'm saying that. But it is in no way to hide or deny who God made me. You know? My mama knows. My mama likes me a lot. And, yes, I take her to the Sound of Music sing-along every single year. So, any questions? But honestly, we're human and we love and we do all that good stuff. So I'm honored for this opportunity and I'm honored to be here with you."

Smollett’s admission comes less than a week after his co-star Malik Yoba reportedly outted him in an interview with Black Film.

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