Timeline of events since Jussie Smollett reported attack

Former “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett will be sentenced Thursday for staging an anti-gay, racist attack on himself and then lying to Chicago police about it

CHICAGO -- Jussie Smollett will be sentenced Thursday for his conviction on charges that he lied to Chicago police when the former “Empire” actor and R&B singer reported being the victim of a racist and homophobic attack more than three years ago. Some key moments in the story:

Jan. 22, 2019

— Smollett receives a racist and homophobic threatening letter at the studio in Chicago where "Empire" is filmed. Police later say they believe Smollett sent the letter himself.

Jan. 29, 2019