"Empire" actor Jussie Smollett has set some records straight recently on the chat show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show." For the first time, the actor has opened up about his sexuality, putting an end to rumours and speculations.
"It was really important to me to make sure that it got across that there is no closet," the actor told DeGeneres, ABC News reported. The actor is known for playing an aspiring musician named Jamal on Fox's hit show "Empire."
The actor was speaking with Ellen Degeneres on the chat show when the issue of his character's sexuality was raised. The character played by Smollett is a gay and has recently revealed himself as one in the story.
The actor reportedly had gone on the show without any intention of making any big personal announcement.
According to recent reports, Smollett initially refused to discuss the matter of his sexuality during the chat show. "What's happening in my life, it's been great,"said the actor during the main interview. The actor reportedly was not prepared to make any big personal announcement on the show.
As DeGeneres moved on and wrapped up, Smollett called her again and told that he has something more to say. Once back stage, Smollett confronted DeGeneres and revealed one-to-one in a taped nterview.The show posted the extra clip online.
Although Smollett has yet not described himself as gay in clear and simple word, it is deductable that the actor has taken a stand regarding his personal life and acknowledged himself as gay, Time reported. Smollett's character is also and his recently revealed his sexuality is only a part of the story.
"Empire" is receiving praise from critics and fans alike for including gay-inclusive plot in the story. During the chat show, Smollett told DeGeneres that he gave seven auditions before he got the role.