Jussie Smollett Net Worth 2024: Jussie Smollett is an American actor and singer with a current net worth of $300,000 in 2024, while his brother Jake Smollett, also an actor and chef, maintains a net worth of $750,000, with Jussie’s former peak salary reaching $125,000 per episode during his time on the television series “Empire.”
Key Facts About Jussie Smollett
- Jussie Smollett’s current net worth stands at $300,000 as of 2024, a significant decrease from his peak earnings.
- Born June 21, 1982, in Santa Rosa, California to Janet and Joel Smollett.
- Started his entertainment career as a child actor in the early 1990s.
- Rose to prominence as Jamal Lyon on the television series “Empire” (2015-2019).
- Earned $125,000 per episode at the height of his “Empire” success.
- Released his independent album “Sum of My Music” in 2018.
- Faced legal challenges from a 2019 incident, resulting in conviction and subsequent overturn.
- Recently won a significant legal victory when Illinois Supreme Court overturned his conviction.
What is Jussie Smollett’s Current Net Worth?
Jussie Smollett’s current net worth is estimated at $300,000, marking a significant decline from his peak earnings during his tenure on the hit television series “Empire.” This figure reflects the financial impact of legal battles and career disruptions following the 2019 controversy that dramatically altered his professional trajectory.
How Did Jussie Smollett Build His Career?
Smollett’s journey in entertainment began as a child model and actor in New York City. His early breakthrough came with roles in notable films like “The Mighty Ducks” (1992) and “North” (1994). The young actor’s talent shone through in the ABC sitcom “On Our Own” (1994-1995), where he performed alongside his real-life siblings.
The defining moment in his career arrived with the role of Jamal Lyon in “Empire” (2015-2019). This character, portraying a gay musician struggling for acceptance in the music industry, earned critical acclaim and significantly boosted Smollett’s profile in Hollywood. During this period, his earnings reportedly reached $65,000 per episode, later increasing to $125,000 per episode.
What Are Jussie Smollett’s Musical Achievements?
Beyond acting, Smollett established himself in the music industry. He released his first EP, “The Poisoned Hearts Club,” in 2012. A significant milestone came with signing to Columbia Records in 2015. His debut studio album, “Sum of My Music,” released in 2018 through his own label, Music of Sound, showcased his abilities as both a singer and songwriter.
How Has The 2019 Controversy Affected His Wealth?
The 2019 staged hate crime incident marked a turning point in Smollett’s career and financial status. The aftermath included:
- Removal from final episodes of “Empire” Season 5
- Legal fees and court-ordered payments
- $120,106 restitution to the city of Chicago
- $25,000 in fines
- Loss of potential acting opportunities
What Properties Does Jussie Smollett Own?
Smollett’s real estate portfolio has seen changes in recent years. In 2016, he purchased a Los Angeles home for $1.687 million. However, he sold the property in July 2019 at a $30,000 loss, reflecting the financial pressures following his legal troubles.
Who Are Jussie Smollett’s Family Members?
Born to Janet (née Harris) and Joel Smollett, Jussie comes from a family of performers. His siblings include actress Jurnee Smollett, known for “Lovecraft Country,” and brothers Jake, Jocqui, and Jojo, along with sister Jazz. This family background in entertainment helped shape his early career path.
What Educational Background Does Jussie Smollett Have?
Smollett completed his education at Paramus Catholic High School in Paramus, New Jersey. His early years involved moving between New York City, where he lived in the Elmhurst neighborhood, and California, contributing to a diverse cultural upbringing.
What Are The Latest Developments in Jussie Smollett’s Career?
In November 2024, the Illinois Supreme Court made a landmark decision by overturning Smollett’s conviction in the 2019 case. The court determined that his initial 2019 agreement with Cook County prosecutors, which included community service and forfeiting a $10,000 bond, protected him from subsequent prosecution. This ruling effectively nullifies his previous 150-day jail sentence and associated felony convictions.
Prior to this development, Smollett completed a five-month therapeutic program in 2024. The actor’s legal team successfully argued that the second prosecution violated his protection against double jeopardy, as he had already fulfilled terms of an initial agreement with prosecutors.
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