Jussie Smollett has finally spoken out about his racial and homophobic attack last week. In an exclusive statement to Essence magazine, the star shared that he was okay and expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support he received following the news of the attack. He said in part “More importantly I want to say thank you. The outpouring of love and support from my village has meant more than I will ever be able to truly put into words.”
Image: Jussie Smollett IG
Here’s a look at Jussie’s full statement to Essence.
“Let me start by saying that I’m OK. My body is strong but my soul is stronger. More importantly I want to say thank you. The outpouring of love and support from my village has meant more than I will ever be able to truly put into words. ”
“I am working with authorities and have been 100% factual and consistent on every level. Despite my frustrations and deep concern with certain inaccuracies and misrepresentations that have been spread, I still believe that justice will be served. ”
“As my family stated, these types of cowardly attacks are happening to my sisters, brothers and non-gender conforming siblings daily. I am not and should not be looked upon as an isolated incident. We will talk soon and I will address all details of this horrific incident, but I need a moment to process,” he concluded. “Most importantly, during times of trauma, grief and pain, there is still a responsibility to lead with love. It’s all I know. And that can’t be kicked out of me.”
Jussie also spoke more on the attack at his first show since in Los Angeles. He shared that he not hospitalized, but was cleared by his doctor and that he fought his attackers.
Jussie Smollett speaks out at Los Angeles performance. pic.twitter.com/l8QZAQfubW
— Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) February 3, 2019