This week we head across the Atlantic to Chicago, as we explore the Jussie Smollett Hate Crime Hoax of 2019. In early 2019, Jussie Smollett was half way through filming the fifth season of the hit show Empire when he was savagely assaulted in a racist and homophobic attack while walking home from Subway in the early hours of the morning. What followed led to widespread condemnation and important debate at what was a politically sensitive time for the USA. But the condemnation and debate was based on hollow foundations, for Jussie had made the whole thing up. And it wouldn't take long for his tall tales to catch up with him... Episode written by Eliott Caddy. Show Sponsor: Shopify - www.shopify.co.uk/seeingred If you would like to support us on Patreon, you can find us here: www.patreon.com/seeingredpodcast If you would like to buy us a coffee, hit the link below: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/seeingredtw Theme music arranged and composed by Holly-Jane Shears - check out her work at www.soundcloud.com/DeadDogInBlackBag Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices