While many are divided on the outcome of Jussie Smollet’s legal case, Anthony Anderson is “happy” for the Empire actor, Variety reports.
Set to host this year’s NAACP Image Awards, the Black-ish star spoke to the outlet about the Smollett case. “I hope to see him here,” Anderson said. “I hope he wins. I’m happy for him that the system worked for him in his favor because the system isn’t always fair, especially for people of color.”
“It’s not my place or any other person’s place to judge him or what not, but I’m glad he’s nominated,” he added. “I hope he wins because I’d be interested to hear his speech.”
Smollett was nominated this year for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his work on Empire; however, he ultimately lost the award to Jesse Williams of Grey’s Anatomy. Outstanding Supporting Actor category, which was announced Friday, is not featured in the televised portion of the ceremony. According to Variety, it’s unknown whether Smollett will show up to the ceremony.
Smollett was accused of faking a racial and homophobic-charged hate crime that took place in January. He was indicted on 16 felony counts by a grand jury; however, the charges were dropped by the Illinois State’s Attorney office earlier this week. Smollett has now been hit with a penalty of $130,000 from the city of Chicago for the overtime that was needed to investigate his alleged attack.
The 50th NAACP Image Awards take place tonight (March 30).
