Jussie Smollett Returns to Fox Reality Show Six Years After Hate Crime Conviction Overturned

Jussie Smollett is making a controversial return to the Fox network as a contestant on the upcoming season of the reality competition show Special Forces: World's Toughest Test, which challenges celebrities with military-style training. Smollett, known for his role on Fox's Empire, became infamous after fabricating a hate crime attack in 2019, an incident that led to felony charges and a brief jail sentence before his conviction was overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court. The show features 18 celebrities, including former NFL players, reality TV personalities, and athletes, and will air starting September 25, 2025. Despite his past legal troubles and public backlash, Smollett has reportedly found support among some fellow contestants. His return marks his first Fox appearance since the hate crime hoax scandal, reigniting debate over his role in the public eye. The program will test participants' physical and mental endurance through intense challenges inspired by special forces training.