Jussie Smollet's Docuseries Is Developed as He Appeals Hate Crime Hoax Conviction
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The 'Empire' alum's attorneys file an appeal challenging a December 2021 conviction against him for staging an anti-gay, racist attack on himself and lying to the police.

AceShowbiz - Jussie Smollett's docuseries is coming amid the actor's legal case in relation to his hate crime hoax. It has been reported that Fox Nation is set to release "Jussie Smollett: Anatomy of a Hoax", a five-part docuseries centering on the former "Empire" actor, on March 13.

The series will feature brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who were part of Smollett's staged hate crime in 2019. John Finley, Fox Nation executive vp, revealed in a statement that "Anatomy of a Hoax" "takes a deep dive into a scam that reverberated through the worlds of entertainment, pop culture and politics. We're excited for viewers to hear the real stories behind this scandal from the Osundairo brothers for the very first time."

Craig Piligian, Nicholas Caprio, Scott Eldridge, Gloria Rodriguez and Nicole Rittenmeyer executive produce the upcoming docuseries with Lionsgate's Pilgrim Media Group developing and producing it. Rittenmeyer additionally serves as director.

In other related news to Smollett, his attorneys filed an appeal challenging a December 2021 conviction against him for staging an anti-gay, racist attack on himself and then lying to Chicago police about it. Through the Wednesday, March 1 filing, they request a new trial for Smollett.

Filed in the Illinois First Judicial District appellate court, the court document argued that Smollett's prosecution violated his due process rights, in part by not enforcing what his attorneys describe as a binding non-prosecution agreement. The actor's legal team also claimed that he was subjected to double jeopardy, takes issue with the appointment of a special prosecutor and argues his sentence was excessive, among other things.

Back in January 2019, Smollett, who is black and gay, made headlines after he claimed that he was attacked by two men who yelled anti-gay and racist remarks at him. The men allegedly put a noose around his neck and poured bleach on him on a frigid night in Chicago.

Following police investigation, it was then determined that the attack was staged. Smollett was found to have paid the Osundairo brothers $3,500 to stage the hate crime against him so he could get publicity and a career boost.

Smollett was found guilty in December 2021 of five out of six felony counts of disorderly conduct for making a false report to police. He was sentenced in March 2022 to 30 months of felony probation, including 150 days in jail. In addition, Smollett was ordered to pay restitution of more than $120,000 and a fine of $25,000 for making false reports to police. He was released from jail pending the appeal.

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