Empire is officially returning for season 6... but Jussie Smollett is not.
FOX just issued a statement saying: "By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett's option for season 6, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to 'Empire.'"
FOX could be waiting to see what happens in the civil case in which the City of Chicago is suing the actor for the costs of the investigation. Jussie will be tried for allegedly faking the attack.
If he happens to win the case, maybe FOX will reconsider bringing him back.