50 Cent, the executive producer of the ‘Power’ franchise, took to social media to mock Jussie Smollett’s performance at Harlem Pride’s ’17 Shades of Pride’ celebration. 50 Cent shared a video of Smollett’s performance, saying ‘See I told you ‘POWER’ was the s—, but No you want to watch ‘Empire.’ Now look this its all your fault. LOL’
Background
Jussie Smollett originally reported to Chicago Police that he was the victim of a racist and homophobic attack by two men wearing ski masks in January 2019. He was convicted in 2021 of staging the hate crime, but his conviction was overturned in November 2024.
Smollett agreed to make a $50,000 charitable donation to have a lawsuit against him dismissed. He maintains his innocence, saying ‘I’m aware that it will not change everyone’s mind about me or the attack I experienced. However, despite arduous and expensive attempts to punish me, I am innocent both in the eyes of God and of our criminal justice system.’
Reactions
Some fans criticized Smollett’s singing and comeback attempt, while others defended him. ‘Queer Eye’ star Karamo Brown commented on 50 Cent’s post, saying ‘I was at this PRIDE event and Jussie killed it. F—k off for using one clip from the entire 30 min show to try bring someone down!’
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
