The assault is suspected to be a hate crime, as Chicago police released a statement saying that Smollett was beaten by two men who were yelling "racial and homophobic slurs" at him. They proceeded to pour "an unknown chemical substance" on the 35-year-old actor and put a rope around his neck before running away.
Chicago Police later confirmed that the attackers yelled, "MAGA country," implicating them as supporters of Donald Trump.
The hate crime that happened today is an attack on us all. Queer people of color need allies, queer people need allies. Kevin Hart so quiet right now. Where are the allies Ellen? Maga hat wearing people need to be checked - we gotta WAKE UP people, it's going down.
— Jonathan Van Ness (@jvn) January 30, 2019
WE LOVE YOU, @JussieSmollett ! ! !
— Janet Mock (@janetmock) January 29, 2019
My heart breaks for Jussie. The hatred this country revels in is sickening.
— Ira (@ira) January 29, 2019
I am waiting for any outlet, ANY outlet to drop the word "possible" and use the word "racists". My heart goes out to @JussieSmollett tonight and I wish him both a quick recovery and justice for this hate crime.
— Justin Guarini (@JustinGuarini) January 29, 2019
it's devastating that this would happen to such a kind soul..there is absolutely no room for hate. we love you @JussieSmollett 🙏🏽❤️ sending love x prayers up
— chloe x halle (@chloexhalle) January 29, 2019
The racist, homophobic attack on @JussieSmollett is an affront to our humanity. No one should be attacked for who they are or whom they love. I pray that Jussie has a speedy recovery & that justice is served. May we all commit to ending this hate once & for all.
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) January 30, 2019