Jussie Smollett playing Jamal Lyon, a homosexual character on Fox's hit series Empire, has led many fans to wonder if he is gay in real life.

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Well, co-star Malik Yoba, who plays Vernon Turner, friend and business partner to Jamal's dad Lucious Lyon (Terrence Howard), has revealed the answer, but Smollett might not have wanted it to get out there. Yoba spoke with Black Film just a few days ago and opened up about the culture of the show, while also disclosing Smollett's sexual orientation.

"I think that our show represents a huge opportunity to stay in the culture beyond entertainment value and there's an intrinsic nature of you have the gay factor, right? So, obviously, Lee [Daniels] is gay.

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"That was an important storyline for him. I think it's important for people to see themselves. Even within the Black community. But if you aren't really, really taking it off of screen and making it live in the community in a significant way...like I know Jussie, he is gay, and he's very committed to issues around the LGBT community. He and I have a very close relationship."

Still, Smollett made an appearance satellite radio's Sway In The Morning just days before that. When asked about whether he is gay in actuality, he refused to answer.

"I'm not willing to confirm or deny anything. I live my life. I don't hide anything, I just don't choose to talk about my personal life."

Smollett has yet to respond to Yoba's statement. But he did send out a cryptic tweet Sunday.

But congrats are in order for Smollett as he just signed a deal with Columbia Records.

Check out Empire Wednesdays at 9/8c on Fox.

Take a look at Smollett's full interview with Sway below.

Tags
Empire Show, Fox, Television