Empirestar Jussie Smollett was hospitalized early Tuesday, the result of an apparent racial and homophobic attack.
The incident took place in Chicago, where the hit Fox series films.
OnEmpire, Smollett plays Jamal Lyon, the middle son of the music family dynasty.
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Both the character and Smollett are gay.
Empireco-creators Lee Daniels and Danny Strong both reacted to the incident on social media.
Im deeply horrified and saddened by the racist and homophobic attacks against @JussieSmollett, he wrote.
He is a kind and profoundly talented soul whom I respect with all my heart.
Jussie is a true champion for LGBTQ people and is beloved by the community and allies around the world.
The plot turned out to be Jamal dealing with his partner, Kai, being HIV positive.
