According to TMZ, Empire was renewed for season 6, but there are no plans for Jussie Smollett’s character Jamal to return.
Fox released a statement, which read, “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.'”
A spokesperson for Smollett reacted to the news, telling the Page Six, ““We’ve been told that Jussie will not be on ‘Empire’ in the beginning of the season, but he appreciates they have extended his contract to keep Jamal’s future open. Most importantly, he is grateful to Fox and ‘Empire’ leadership, cast, crew and fans for their unwavering support.”