My Thoughts On Jussie Smollett
My Thoughts On Jussie Smollett
There has been so much controversy surrounding the alleged attack against Jussie with the last week, especially not being the best for the Empire star. One important criterion I have learned over the years in media is that you must remove your own personal biases and remain objective when addressing the public. Having said that, I have pretty much kept my silence as far as my personal thoughts, but it’s been on my heart to break my silence via this platform. Here goes…
In 2018 at the BET Awards/Experience, myself and my colleague had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Jussie and he was one of the most kind-hearted, authentic and personable celebs we had come across. We had a ball interviewing him and even had him end the interview with a bang: singing the call letters to our station. See video below:
I just cannot fathom the thought of Jussie supposedly orcastrating his own attack. I am not saying he did or did not do such, but what I am saying is IF he did in fact fake this whole ordeal, I would be beyond shocked! Sitting back and witnessing so many say that all of the encounters they have had with Jussie have been pleasant, has made this even more unbelievable. “He’s a hard worker, authentic, honest, kind, smart, an activist”…etc. is all I have been hearing, reading, watching. All I keep saying to myself is that those are some of the same encounters and attributes I witnessed as well with him and I have only met him once. However, these individuals have known Jussie for several years and feel the same way.
I am not sure what it is, but I have found myself listening to Smollett’s “Ha Ha (I Love You)” over and over and over again the last few days. I personally believe I have been listening to this single with a different ear. Yes, I absolutely love the song anyways, BUT it’s almost like a connection I feel by listening this time around… witnessing his talents, his openness, his musical genius coming through the speakers and I just feel sorry for him. Honestly, I truly do. Jussie has so much going for him, at least he did, and so much to lose… so why lie? Just, why?
I will say this, if it is confirmed that his attack was truly a hoax, I still do not believe he should be just dragged through the mud, especially with so many other injustices transpiring where nothing is being done to address them. I have seen so much foolishness in memes, photoshopped pictures, negative parodies, skits, you name it, when there is still a chance he may be innocent in all of this. What IF he was setup? I just think it is truly sad how quick the world will turn on you when you need support THEE most! Guess there’s so much truth in the phrase Dog Eat Dog World. If Jussie’s attack is hoax, he needs help, not all of this negativity, as it is quite evident there may be some deeper rooted issues or mental issues even, in the mix. Even Faizon Love, in his own way, pretty much expressed the same. See video below:
I thought the way of the justice system was “Innocent until proven guilty.” So if that’s the case, then why have we written him off so prematurely? Being removed from the final episodes of the current season of Empire, his music being removed from rotation, upcoming episode of “Drop the Mic” being pulled from airing, etc., are all bazaar to me. By the same token, if he is proven guilty, does he not deserve a second chance? Look at how many others out there committing far worse and have been given nine lives. If guilty, yes, he [and those others] should have some type of punishment [including help] for their actions, but not crucifixion.
Smollett sat down with Robin Roberts for a LIVE interview on ABC News and now, even that interview is being picked a part. He just cannot catch a break! See interview below:
This kind of scrutiny makes those who are victims and those those who are guilty afraid to come out of their shells, with fear that any given moment, the world could show you just how cold/cruel it could be. It’s almost like you are damned if you do and damned if you don’t.
All I have left to say is… Jussie, hang in there. If you did this, hang in there. If you did not do this, hang in there. Shout out to Terrence Howard for showing love/support in the midst of it all…
Trendy Bizz CHELLE B Brought To You
Chicago has been in the public eye A LOT this last week… From Jussie to R. Kelly…
Kellz, Kellz, Kellz…
Robert “R. Kelly” Kelly has been indicted in Chicago on several charges of sexual misconduct with minors that spanned from 1998 – 2010. Although he has consistently denied all allegations, he has now turned himself in. Kelly’s arraignment was set for yesterday (Saturday, February 23rd) and supposedly there was an $1 million-dollar bond set of which his attorney claims he does not have enough dividends to post bail. See full story here.
Guess we’ll see how it will all unfold when it’s time for Kellz’s court date: March 8th!
On a more positive note…
The GRAMMYs were LIT with women empowerment this year! From 15-time Grammy Award Winner, Alicia Keys hosting and performing, a surprise appearance from my forever First Lady, Michelle Obama to my girl, Ella Mai receiving her first Grammy, Beyonce’s proteges, Chloe’ and Halle’s extraordinary performance and a phenomenal tribute to the late Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin performed by Yolanda Adams, Fantasia and Andra Day, this year’s show was OUTSTANDING! Below are a few of my faves:
Alicia Keys 2019 GRAMMYs Performance from AliciaKeysWorld on Vimeo.
Congratulations to all nominees and winners, Okurrrrr! LOL
~Chelle B