Jussie Smollett is a versatile American actor, singer, and producer who began his career at a young age. He belongs to a large, talented family where five of his siblings — JoJo, Jazz, Jurnee, Jake, and Jocqui — are also involved in entertainment. All six Smolletts starred in the 1994 ABC sitcom On Our Own, which showcased their acting abilities and teamwork. Their parents, Joel and Janet Smollett, played a crucial role in nurturing a supportive, creative home environment. This upbringing fostered not only professional skills but also a strong sense of family collaboration. Today, the Smolletts remain a highly respected family in Hollywood circles.
Quick Bio — Jussie Smollett
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Jussie Langston Smollett |
| Date of Birth | June 21 1982 |
| Place of Birth | Santa Rosa, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity / Heritage | Biracial — African‑American (mother Janet Smollett) + Jewish (father Joel Smollett) |
| Occupations | Actor, Singer, Producer / Filmmaker |
| Active Years | Early 1990s to present |
| Famous Role | Jamal Lyon on the FOX drama series Empire |
| Key Family | Siblings: JoJo, Jazz, Jurnee, Jake, Jocqui |
| Net Worth | Estimated ~ US $300,000 (as of 2025) |
Early Life and Heritage
Jussie Smollett was born on June 21, 1982, into a multicultural family blending African-American and Jewish heritage. His father, Joel Smollett, is of Jewish descent, while his mother, Janet Smollett, is African-American. The children’s upbringing was characterized by creativity, social consciousness, and frequent relocation between coasts to accommodate acting and modeling gigs. Despite financial limitations, Janet and Joel built furniture, beds, and even slides for their children at home, cultivating resourcefulness and independence. These early experiences shaped the Smolletts’ adaptability and professional drive. The family’s heritage played an important role in instilling values of resilience, artistry, and community awareness.
How Old Is Janet Smollett?
Janet Smollett’s exact age is not publicly documented. However, she has spent decades guiding her six children with discipline, creativity, and love. Her hands-on parenting style allowed her children to explore acting, music, and modeling from an early age. Janet’s involvement extended from practical household solutions to fostering performance opportunities at home. She encouraged teamwork, independence, and creativity, ensuring each child could pursue individual passions while remaining connected to the family. Her age, though undisclosed, reflects years of experience in parenting and nurturing multiple talented children. Her influence remains evident in their professional and personal achievements.
What Does Janet Smollett Look Like?
Janet Smollett is best known for her role as a nurturing and creative mother rather than for her physical appearance. She exudes energy, determination, and resourcefulness, qualities she instilled in her children. She personally built furniture, toy boxes, and even a slide in her children’s bedroom, emphasizing hands-on creativity. Her home environment blended play, learning, and performance, giving the Smolletts a unique edge in developing confidence and talent. Janet’s influence is seen in her children’s collaborative spirit and artistic versatility. She represents a figure whose impact on her family transcends appearance, focusing instead on character, creativity, and family cohesion.
Family and Marriage
Janet and Joel Smollett met during a civil rights campaign and married to form a household rooted in creativity and activism. They raised six children who would go on to excel in acting, music, culinary arts, and technology. From an early age, the children were encouraged to participate in modeling, acting, and family performances. The household emphasized collaboration, responsibility, and fun, integrating daily routines with creative exercises. Their marriage served as a model of partnership, providing stability while promoting artistic exploration. The family’s shared projects created a strong foundation of teamwork, allowing the siblings to thrive professionally while remaining closely bonded.
Who Is Joel Smollett?
Joel Smollett is Jussie’s father and a guiding figure in the family’s creative journey. He emphasized discipline, teamwork, and artistic exploration, supporting his children’s ambitions in acting and beyond. Joel actively participated in organizing family projects and productions, ensuring opportunities were both structured and enjoyable. His guidance complemented Janet’s hands-on approach, creating an environment where children could safely take creative risks. Joel’s influence is evident in the professionalism, versatility, and collaborative spirit displayed by the Smollett siblings. Together with Janet, he instilled a balance of work ethic, creativity, and social awareness.
Parenting Philosophy
The Smollett parenting philosophy prioritizes creativity, collaboration, and independence. Janet and Joel encouraged their children to engage in performances, art, music, and home projects, cultivating both skills and confidence. By combining discipline with freedom, the parents taught the children responsibility while fostering innovation. From building furniture to organizing home performances, every activity became a learning opportunity. The philosophy emphasizes teamwork, resilience, and personal growth, preparing the children for careers in competitive industries. This environment created well-rounded individuals capable of balancing professional ambition with family values.
Children and Family Life
The Smollett children frequently traveled between the East and West Coasts for modeling, acting, and music gigs. Despite constant relocation, the household remained supportive, creative, and structured. Siblings collaborated in performances and shared experiences, building lifelong bonds. Parents Janet and Joel ensured that professional opportunities complemented family life rather than replaced it. The children grew up understanding teamwork, responsibility, and adaptability. Family activities often included performances, creative projects, and shared learning experiences. This foundation allowed each sibling to flourish in their respective careers while maintaining a strong connection to family values.
Jojo Smollett
Jojo Smollett, the eldest sibling, was among the first to venture into acting. He starred in On Our Own alongside his siblings, demonstrating early talent and professionalism. Jojo also contributed to family projects, exemplifying leadership among the Smollett siblings. His involvement in collaborative family productions reinforced values of cooperation and mutual support. Jojo’s career illustrates the balance between individual growth and family collaboration. His early experiences highlight the benefits of a nurturing environment that encourages creativity and structured guidance.
Jazz Smollett
Jazz Smollett is an accomplished designer and television personality. She co-hosts the home improvement show Living By Design with her brother Jake, combining design, woodworking, and culinary skills. Jazz’s creativity and aesthetic sense complement Jake’s technical expertise, resulting in an engaging and dynamic program. Her background in entertainment allows her to bring storytelling and performance skills to her projects. Jazz credits her parents for fostering experimentation and curiosity. She continues to work on projects that blend functionality, design, and family engagement, reflecting the family’s versatile talents.
Jurnee Smollett
Jurnee Smollett-Bell began her acting career as a child, gaining recognition at age four on ABC’s Full House. Her early exposure paved the way for the 1994 sitcom On Our Own, where she starred with all six siblings. Jurnee later appeared in critically acclaimed projects such as Lovecraft Country, Smoke, and The Burial, as well as WGN’s Underground alongside Jussie. Her career highlights both talent and disciplined training received at home. Jurnee’s success has inspired many young women of color in entertainment. She remains a role model for confidence, representation, and creative excellence in Hollywood.
Jake Smollett
Jake Smollett transitioned from acting into professional culinary arts. He has appeared on The Rachael Ray Show, Chopped Junior, and The Chew, while co-hosting Living By Design with Jazz. Jake credits his mother Janet for nurturing his love of cooking from an early age. His career demonstrates a combination of creativity, technical skill, and performance ability. Jake’s work bridges entertainment, culinary arts, and design, reflecting the Smolletts’ philosophy of versatile talent. His success highlights the importance of nurturing individual passions within a collaborative family framework.
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Jocqui Smollett
Jocqui Smollett chose a career in technology and data analytics rather than entertainment. He graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz, with majors in global economics and mathematics. Jocqui has worked at Plantronics, SurveyMonkey, and AI firm Snowflake as a strategy and operations manager. His professional path showcases the Smollett family’s encouragement of diverse talents. Jocqui embodies the family values of discipline, collaboration, and innovation outside the entertainment industry. His success reflects the versatility of the Smollett household in fostering both artistic and analytical skill sets.
Jussie Smollett
Jussie Smollett is widely known for portraying Jamal Lyon in Empire, a role that brought him fame. In 2019, he faced allegations related to a hate crime, which were later overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2024. Throughout the ordeal, his siblings and family stood by him, highlighting their unity. Jussie’s career spans television, film, and music, reflecting his multi-faceted talent. Despite legal challenges and public scrutiny, he remains influential in Hollywood. His journey emphasizes resilience, family support, and the complex dynamics of fame in the modern entertainment industry.
They Grew Up Bicoastal
The Smolletts frequently moved between East and West Coasts for work. This exposure gave them adaptability, resilience, and industry experience. Traveling allowed the children to pursue modeling, acting, and music opportunities, building independence. Parents Janet and Joel facilitated these moves, ensuring continuity in both education and family life. Bicoastal upbringing also exposed the children to diverse cultural environments, broadening their worldview. It reinforced teamwork and problem-solving skills as they navigated new settings. This upbringing created a strong foundation for their creative and professional careers.
They Credit Their Mom With Fostering a Creative Environment
Janet Smollett played a central role in encouraging artistic expression at home. She organized family performances, built props, and cultivated creativity among her children. All six siblings have acknowledged her influence in nurturing passion and discipline. The home environment resembled a miniature production studio, blending play and learning. Her guidance helped instill confidence, teamwork, and innovation. The Smolletts’ artistic success is a direct result of Janet’s dedication to fostering a collaborative, creative atmosphere. Her impact resonates in each sibling’s career trajectory and professional accomplishments.
Jurnee’s Breakout Role on Full House
At age four, Jurnee Smollett appeared on ABC’s Full House, playing Denise, Michelle Tanner’s friend. This early exposure established her confidence and on-screen presence. Her breakout role also paved the way for her siblings to join the 1994 sitcom On Our Own. The experience provided professional training, public exposure, and foundational skills for her acting career. Jurnee credits this period with instilling freedom, confidence, and adaptability. It also helped the Smolletts establish credibility in Hollywood at a young age. The role remains a milestone in Jurnee’s continued success.
They Have Collaborated on Several TV Projects
The Smollett siblings have frequently collaborated on television and other creative projects. Beyond On Our Own, they participated in cooking shows, family productions, and public appearances. For example, they co-created a family cookbook, The Family Table, in 2018, showcasing both culinary and entertainment skills. Collaborative projects reinforced teamwork, strengthened familial bonds, and highlighted each sibling’s unique talents. These experiences demonstrate how the Smolletts balance individual achievement with collective endeavors. The siblings’ collaborations continue to maintain their visibility and influence in entertainment.
Jake Smollett Is a Professional Chef
Jake Smollett leveraged his childhood exposure to cooking into a professional career. He has been featured on cooking competitions and talk shows while integrating his culinary expertise into television projects. Jake credits his mother Janet for fostering his love of food and creativity in the kitchen. His work emphasizes precision, skill, and artistic presentation. Through his cooking, Jake continues to merge family traditions with professional success. His culinary journey showcases how early mentorship and passion can evolve into a multifaceted career.
Jocqui Smollett Works in Tech and Data Analytics
Jocqui Smollett pursued technology and data analysis, diverging from the family’s entertainment path. His work at Snowflake, SurveyMonkey, and Plantronics reflects analytical expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership skills. Jocqui represents the Smollett family’s diversity in professional pursuits. He maintains family values of teamwork, resilience, and collaboration. His achievements highlight the balance between creative and analytical talents within a single family. Jocqui’s path underscores the importance of individual choice and multifaceted career development.
Jazz and Jake’s Home Improvement Show
Jazz and Jake Smollett co-host Living By Design, a home improvement show combining design, woodworking, and cooking. Each episode blends creativity with practical skills, demonstrating their versatility. The show targets millennial families and emphasizes aesthetic and functional home renovations. Jazz focuses on design, Jake on construction and cooking, creating a holistic experience. The show exemplifies their ability to translate entertainment skills into lifestyle programming. It also reflects the family’s philosophy of teamwork, creativity, and practical problem-solving.
Activism and Social Commitment
The Smollett siblings have used their platforms to raise awareness on social issues, representation, and equality. Jurnee advocates for women of color in entertainment, while Jussie’s experiences sparked public dialogue on social justice. The family supports community engagement, mentoring, and charitable activities. Their activism is deeply tied to values instilled by Janet and Joel. It demonstrates how artistic talent can intersect with civic responsibility. The Smolletts’ commitment extends beyond performance to meaningful societal contributions.
Legacy and Impact
The Smollett family has left a strong mark on Hollywood through collaboration, creativity, and social responsibility. Their multi-generational involvement in entertainment, culinary arts, and technology highlights versatility. They inspire younger generations, particularly children of color, to pursue creative careers with confidence. The family’s cohesive approach to work, performance, and activism ensures a lasting legacy. The Smolletts demonstrate how family support, discipline, and creativity can result in impactful careers and influence.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite public scrutiny, legal issues, and industry pressures, the Smolletts have maintained resilience and unity. Their upbringing emphasized problem-solving, collaboration, and emotional support. Jurnee described challenges related to Jussie’s legal controversies as “devastating” yet unifying. The family’s approach showcases perseverance, adaptability, and strong bonds. These experiences strengthened their commitment to mutual success and advocacy. Their story highlights how family cohesion and shared values can help navigate adversity in high-pressure environments.
Public Image and Media Presence
The Smolletts have maintained a public image of professionalism, talent, and family cohesion. Media coverage often focuses on their collaborative projects and individual achievements. Despite controversies surrounding Jussie, the family’s reputation reflects resilience and integrity. Public appearances, interviews, and social media highlight both personal and professional successes. Their image combines entertainment credibility with socially conscious engagement. By managing their media presence carefully, the Smolletts balance privacy with public visibility. Their legacy is reinforced through positive storytelling and consistent professionalism.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Beyond entertainment, the Smollett family engages in philanthropic efforts. They support mentorship programs, charitable initiatives, and community events. Their activism often intersects with creative projects, such as family cookbooks or television shows. Philanthropy reflects values instilled by their parents, emphasizing service, responsibility, and social impact. These efforts extend the family’s influence beyond Hollywood, positively affecting communities. Philanthropy also provides platforms for younger generations to engage meaningfully with social causes. The Smolletts’ community involvement complements their professional achievements.
Relationship With Her Children Today
Janet Smollett continues to maintain a close, supportive relationship with her children. Even as adults, the siblings frequently collaborate and celebrate milestones together. She remains involved in mentoring, guidance, and personal support. Family traditions, creative collaborations, and ongoing projects reinforce strong bonds. Her relationship with the children reflects continuity in values, discipline, and artistic passion. Janet’s guidance helps her children navigate professional and personal challenges. This sustained connection ensures the family remains united while pursuing individual ambitions.
Influence on Hollywood Diversity and Representation
The Smolletts have contributed to increasing representation in Hollywood, especially for Black actors and women of color. Jurnee’s roles and Jussie’s performances have challenged industry norms. Their projects demonstrate cultural authenticity and diverse storytelling. By collaborating on family-centered productions, they provide visibility for underrepresented groups. Their careers inspire aspiring actors and creators to embrace diversity and inclusion. The family’s impact on Hollywood extends beyond entertainment to social and cultural influence. Their legacy highlights the importance of representation, mentorship, and visibility in shaping media narratives.
What Is Janet Smollett’s Net Worth?
Janet Smollett’s exact net worth is not publicly documented. However, the Smollett family’s collective achievements in acting, television, culinary arts, and business suggest financial stability. Janet’s influence in guiding and mentoring her children has indirectly contributed to their economic success. The family’s ongoing projects ensure continued visibility and revenue streams. Janet’s role underscores the importance of behind-the-scenes leadership in cultivating talent and sustaining wealth. Her contribution remains a key component of the Smolletts’ legacy and financial foundation.
Conclusion
Jussie Smollett and his five siblings illustrate the power of talent, family collaboration, and resilience. From On Our Own to successful individual careers in acting, culinary arts, technology, and design, the Smolletts continue to make an impact. Janet and Joel’s parenting philosophy fostered creativity, discipline, and social responsibility. Despite challenges, controversies, and the pressures of fame, the family remains united. Their story highlights how nurturing, teamwork, and versatile talents can create a lasting legacy in entertainment and beyond. The Smolletts exemplify the balance of professional achievement with strong family values.
FAQS
1. What is the ethnicity of the Smollett family?
The Smollett family is biracial. Their father, Joel Smollett, is Jewish, and their mother, Janet Smollett, is African-American. This multicultural background influenced their upbringing and creative pursuits.
2. Are Jake and Jazz Smollett twins?
No, Jake and Jazz Smollett are not twins. They are siblings, but Jazz is older than Jake.
3. How did the Smollett family get famous?
The Smollett family gained fame through acting and entertainment. Five of the six siblings starred together in the 1994 ABC sitcom On Our Own. Many of them, including Jurnee and Jussie, went on to have successful acting careers in television and film.
4. Who is Smollett’s mother?
Smollett’s mother is Janet Smollett. She played a central role in nurturing the family’s creativity and supporting all six children in their acting, music, and artistic pursuits.
5. Are the Smolletts biracial?
Yes, the Smolletts are biracial. They have African-American heritage from their mother and Jewish heritage from their father.
6. Is Jurnee Smollett still paying alimony?
As of public records, Jurnee Smollett-Bell finalized her divorce in 2021. There are no confirmed recent reports indicating that she is still paying alimony.
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