'Empire' Renewed for Season 6, But Jussie Smollett's Return Is In Doubt Fox made the announcement on Tuesday that its popular series will be returning next season. Michael Thorn, Fox Entertainment president, via statement 'Empire' will continue without actor Jussie Smollett, at least to start the upcoming season. 20th Century Fox TV, via statement Smollett was written out of the final two episodes of season five after the actor allegedly
staged a hate crime. All charges against Smollett
were dropped in March. Jussie Smollett's rep, via statement