Back in 2019, Smollett alleged that he had been a victim of a brutal racist and homophobic attack, claiming that two men confronted him, hurled racial slurs, and assaulted him, even putting a noose around his neck. His claims were initially met with substantial support from the community and celebrities alike. However, as investigations unfolded, Smollett faced allegations of fabricating the incident, further complicated by accusations that he had staged the attack with the help of two associates. He was convicted of lying to the authorities in 2021, but his conviction was subsequently overturned in 2022. A spokesperson for the Chicago law department expressed that this settlement serves as a fair and constructive resolution, allowing all involved to close this lengthy chapter amicably.