The apology tour for Jussie Smollett’s alleged hate crime “hoax” has begun — but not by the actor who police say orchestrated it.
The brothers whom the Empire star allegedly paid to stage a “bogus” attack against him have issued a public apology through their attorney on Thursday.
Abel and Ola Osundairo’s lawyer told CBS Chicago that the two felt “tremendous regret” for being involved with the situation, and apologize for the negative impact it had on minority groups across the country.
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The statement read:
“My clients have tremendous regret over their involvement in this situation, and they understand how it has impacted people across the nation, particularly minority communities and especially those who have been victims of hate crimes themselves.”
According to Chicago Police, Smollett is not one of those victims, despite his persistent claims that he was attacked by two masked men on the streets of Chicago in late January.
Authorities believe the actor paid the Osundairo brothers. — who reportedly knew the 36-year-old from working on the FOX drama and going to the same gym — to stage a hate crime attack against him because he was dissatisfied with his salary.
Text messages between Smollett and Abel and Ola that were read in court reportedly described how the 45-second street performance would allegedly be orchestrated.
As we reported, Smollett was arrested on February 21 and released after posting his $100,000 bond. He’s currently facing a felony charge of disorderly conduct and looking at up to three years in prison. His next hearing is set for March 14.
It’s unclear at this time if the brothers Osundario will face any charges.
[Image via Instagram.]
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