According to reports Jussie Smollett only consumed ice water during the six days he spent in jail before he was released on Wednesday. His attorney confirmed that he chose not to eat and seemed to have almost given up.
According to Fox Smollett’s attorney, Nenye Uche, confirmed this in a news conference after the former “Empire” star was released from Cook County Jail in Chicago, Illinois.
“Ice water, that’s been his food and liquid. I can only imagine if I was in jail for something I didn’t do, I wouldn’t be eating,” Uche said outside the county jail, multiple reports said.
It was reportedly the 39-year-old’s choice not to eat food while in jail.
On Wednesday, an appeals court, in a 2-1 decision, said Smollett could be released after posting a personal recognizance bond of $150,000, meaning he doesn’t have to lay down money but agrees to show up for court as required.
The fallen star was seen getting into an SUV after he was released. He walked out of the facility surrounded by security and did not comment as he entered the awaiting vehicle.
Uche said he informed the actor of his release while separated by glass due to COVID-19 protocols.
“He pushed his hands on the glass, and he was, his eyes got teary. I’ve never seen that because he’s been really strong in there,” Uche said. “He nearly lost hope in our constitutional system.”
“He was shocked. I think he had nearly given up,” Uche added.