Actor Jussie Smollett celebrated his birthday by announcing his engagement to actor Jabari Redd. The former “Empire” star, who turned 43 on June 21, shared the happy news on Instagram with a series of photos capturing the moment he proposed to Redd, who joyfully accepted the ring. Smollett’s post expressed his excitement, stating, “I’ll be spending my birthday with my Fiancé … He said YES. 💍” Redd, known for his appearances on shows like “The Chi,” starred in Smollett’s 2024 film, “The Lost Holliday.”
Family and friends, including Smollett’s sisters Jurnee and Jazz, celebrated the engagement on social media, welcoming Redd into the family. This milestone comes after a tumultuous period for Smollett, including legal troubles stemming from accusations of staging a fake hate crime in 2019. Although the actor was convicted of felony disorderly conduct in 2021, his conviction was overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court in November 2024. Smollett has consistently denied the allegations and has expressed a desire to move forward and focus on his art, causes he cares about, and defending his integrity. He also reached a civil settlement with the city of Chicago earlier this year.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Smollett remains optimistic about the future, believing that one day the truth will be revealed. He is determined to live his life to the fullest and continue creating his art while standing by his values and family name.
