Jussie Smollett returns to TV in ‘Special Forces’

After a prolonged absence from the public eye and a tumultuous legal battle, actor Jussie Smollett is set to make a high-profile return to television on the Fox reality competition series, “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test.”

His inclusion in the Season 4 cast has generated significant buzz and marks his first major TV appearance since his departure from the network’s hit drama, “Empire,” in 2019.

“Special Forces” is known for its intense and grueling format. It strips celebrities of their comfort and status and places them in a military-style training environment.

Jussie Smollett to be endure challenging obstacles

The show challenges participants to endure physically and mentally demanding trials. They are pushed to their absolute limits under the guidance of a team of elite ex-special forces operatives.

This season will see Smollett and other celebrity recruits face extreme circumstances of urban warfare. It will feature challenges ranging from treacherous rat-runs through tunnels to plane shell submersion.

Smollett’s casting is particularly noteworthy given the circumstances of his exit from “Empire.” The actor was at the center of a highly publicized legal case after he claimed to be the victim of a hate crime in Chicago in 2019.

Law enforcement and a jury later alleged and convicted him of staging the attack and filing a false police report.

His conviction was overturned in 2024 by the Illinois Supreme Court. Furthermore, the court ruled that the second prosecution violated his due process rights. This occurred after the original charges were dropped in exchange for community service. 

This means the conviction for five counts of felony disorderly conduct was vacated, although the court did not rule on his guilt or innocence. 

Smollett has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal.

By joining “Special Forces,” Smollett is stepping into a role that is both physically demanding and emotionally vulnerable.

Moreover, the show’s format, which focuses on survival, offers a platform to showcase resilience and character in a raw, unscripted setting.

The new season of “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” is scheduled to premiere on September 25.