'Empire' Gets The Greenlight For Season 6 + Jussie Smollett Remains In Limbo, Says He's 'Grateful'

"Empire" has been renewed for season 6. As for Jussie Smollett, his return remains in limbo. Get the latest inside...

"Empire" was rocked when star Jussie Smollett first came out with allegations that he had been attacked during a racist and homophobic attack in Chicago back in January.

Since then, he has had all 16 felony charges brought up against him for lying to police dropped, so he's cleared criminally. However, the City of Chicago is suing him for $130,000 for the man hours put into investigating what they dubbed a "staged attack."

Since the drama popped off, folks have been wondering if the 36-year-old actor would be returning for a new season.

Well, FOX has announced that the hit drama series has been renewed for a 6th season. However, Jussie's role as Jamal Lyon remains in limbo.

“By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett’s option for Season 6, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to Empire,” Fox Entertainment and 20th Century Fox TV said in a statement to Deadline.

Jussie was already written out of the final two episodes of the current season, which wraps up May 8th.

Since the network extended the actor's option for season six, it's possible his character could be brought back at a later date. It seems the network could be waiting to see how this civil case against him plays out.

A rep for Jussie made a statement to Deadline following news "Empire" was getting the greenlight for another season.

“We’ve been told that Jussie will not be on Empire in the beginning of the season but he appreciates they have extended his contract to keep Jamal’s future open,” Jussie's rep said. “Most importantly he is grateful to Fox and Empire leadership, cast, crew and fans for their unwavering support.”

Hmm...def doesn't sound like the agreement was "mutual" like FOX said.

In other news, Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx has reportedly been subpoenaed over her handling of the Jussie Smollett case. The Cook County Prosecutor's office made the controversial decision to drop all of the charges. It's reported a retired judges obtained that subpoena in a push to have a special prosecutor appointed. Jussie could also be summoned to that hearing. Kim Foxx - who recused herself from the case - said she welcomes an independent investigation.

Photo: Jussie's IG

source: theybf