First name Tom, Last name Foolery... And I'm Everybody's Uncle!

Especially this vocal actor… Jussie Smollett.

Empire actor Jussie Smollett is speaking out for the first time since his brutal attack on Tuesday in Chicago. He assured fans that he's recovering & grateful for the support he's received.

"Let me start by saying that I'm OK," Smollett, 35, said in a statement to Essence on Friday. 

"My body is strong but my soul is stronger. More importantly, I want to say thank you. The outpouring of love & support from my village has meant more than I will ever be able to truly put into words."

Smollett continued, "I am working with authorities & have been 100 percent factual & consistent on every level. Despite my frustrations & deep concern with certain inaccuracies & misrepresentations that have been spread, I still believe that justice will be served."

Smollett was attacked shortly after his flight from New York's LaGuardia Airport touched down in Chicago early Tuesday. Two unknown men allegedly approached him "yelling out racial & homophobic slurs," the Chicago Police Department (CPD) said. The assailants lashed at his head repeatedly. One man apparently wrapped his head with a noose. The attackers fled the scene thereafter. Police said the attack is being investigated as a hate crime.

Smollett was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital for treatment & released later that day. 

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By: Dory Jackson