Originally we were told Jussie Smollett created this hoax (see Dave Chappelle Addresses Jussie Smollett Hoax in Stand-Up Set and EAT CROW: Celebrities, Politicians Who Supported Jussie Smollett's Hoax Hate Crime) because he was being written out of Empire. Producers for the show said that was crazy talk. They love and cherish Jussie! He is an integral part of the show.

Now it's clearer the hoax was a hoax, producers are more like, "New phone, who dis." Again from TMZ...

Jussie was supposed to have 9 scenes and a big musical number in the second to the last episode -- which is being shot now -- but, 5 of his scenes have been cut, and his musical number has been 86'd.

As for the remaining 4 scenes ... we're told he's no longer the focus. The scene features an ensemble, meaning he's flanked by a number of cast members.

With his duties pared down, Jussie will be spending way less time on set. Instead of working every day this week, we're told Jussie's working Friday and possibly Thursday, and he won't be rehearsing.

Man, if he shows up at a read through...

Maybe if he showed up with donuts, his (soon to be former) coworkers won't be so pissed at him. I'd stick with the donuts, and skip the Subway sandwiches. Maybe a cake that reads "Sorry?" yes with the question mark.

Or maybe the producers are still pretending there's a chance everything Smollett said wasn't complete bullsh!t. When, in fact, it seems like everything Smollett said was complete bullsh!t.

Actions have consequences. I guess we'll find out the severity of those consequences if Jussie's character suddenly develops an inoperable brain tumor.

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