Last night, ex-"Empire" actor Jussie Smollett walked out of Cook County Jail in Chicago. Flanked by a host of security guards and swarmed by the media, Smollett emerged, silent, and was immediately whisked away in a SUV.

While the actor hasn't been exonerated, the appeals court ordered Smollett's release as he undergoes the appeals process. According to the court order, the reasons given for why Smollett was freed were because he had committed a non-violent offense and because Smollett would've served the entirety of his five-month jail sentence before the appeals court could make their decision. The actor has so far maintained his innocence.

Last Thursday, Judge Linn sentenced Smollett to five months in jail. During the sentencing, Smollett expressed that he respected the judge and the jury, but still insisted on his innocence and that he wouldn't be a danger to himself when in jail. He raised his fist as he was led out of court in handcuffs.

Jussie Smollett Sentenced For Disorderly Conduct Convictions
(Photo : (Photo by Brian Cassella-Pool/Getty Images))

While it's tough to say exactly what Smollett did or didn't do, we hope that Smollett gets to spend time with friends and family and reflect on all that's occurred as he prepares to appeal his case.

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