People Roundup: Jussie Smollett out from 'Empire'

Following is a summary of current people news briefs.

Actor Jussie Smollett not returning to 'Empire,' TV creator says

Jussie Smollett will not be returning to U.S. television series "Empire", the show's creator says, marking the first public confirmation that the actor has been dropped after a furore over claims that he was the victim of a hate crime. Responding to a Variety report that writers were discussing scenarios in which Smollett's character would return towards the end of the sixth and final season, "Empire" creator Lee Daniels wrote on Twitter on Tuesday; "Jussie will NOT be returning to Empire."

(With inputs from agencies.)