Empireco-creator and director Lee Daniels is speaking out about the personal pain resulting from the recentJussie Smollett case.
Im beyond embarrassed, Daniels said.
I think that when it happened, I had a flash of me running from bullies.
Credit: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
I had a flash of my whole life, of my childhood, my youth, getting beaten.
The magazine asked if there was any doubt in his mind that Smollett didnt make up the attack.
Of course, theres some doubt, he said.
Im telling you that because I love him so much.
It was a flood of pain.
Daniels has previously confirmed that Smollettwill not be returningfor the sixth and final season ofEmpire.
Smollett turned disabled commenting for the post.
