Culture, Arts & Identity

Chris Rock Calls Out Jussie Smollett At NAACP Image Awards

When actor-comedian Chris Rock took the stage Saturday at the NAACP Image Awards, he had more on his mind than announcing the winner for outstanding comedy series.

“They said no Jussie Smollett jokes,” Rock said. “Yeah, I know. I know. What a waste of light skin. You know what I could do with that light skin? That curly hair? My career would be out of here. I’d be fucking running Hollywood.”
With audience members laughing hard, Rock added: “What the hell was he thinking? From now on … you’re Jessie from now on. You don’t even get the ‘U’ no more. That ‘U’ was respect. You don’t get no respect from me.”

Smollett, nominated for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series for his role on “Empire,” did not attend the event, held in Los Angeles. He’s the object of derision from many after he reported earlier this year that he had been the victim of a racist and homophobic attack by two white men in Chicago, only to have the police conclude that he had paid two Nigerian men to assault him for publicity reasons.

Smollett was charged with 16 felony counts of making false statements to authorities. In a surprise last week, prosecutors dropped the charges, unleashing a second wave of controversy.

Twitter users were overwhelmingly supportive of Rock’s comments about Smollett.

Source: HuffPost

Ujamaa Team

The UjamaaLive Editorial Team is a collective of pan-African storytellers, journalists, and cultural curators committed to amplifying authentic African narratives. We specialize in publishing fact-checked, visually compelling stories that celebrate African excellence, innovation, heritage, and everyday life across the continent and diaspora. Our team blends editorial strategy with deep cultural insight, ensuring every feature reflects the diversity, dignity, and creative spirit of Africa. From food diplomacy and indigenous superfoods to tech innovation, public history, and urban culture — we craft stories that connect communities and reframe the global conversation about Africa.

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