The Truth About Jussie Smollett? (2025) – Netflix Documentary Review
Netflix’s The Truth About Jussie Smollett? dives deep into one of the most controversial true-crime cases of recent years. Was it a hate crime—or a hoax? This gripping documentary gives audiences a chance to decide for themselves.
Synopsis
The documentary features an exclusive interview with Jussie Smollett alongside police officers, lawyers, investigators, and reporters. Each shares their side of the story, presenting new evidence and perspectives.
The case began in 2019, when Smollett reported being the victim of a racist and homophobic attack. Soon after, police accused him of staging the incident and indicted him for filing a false report. This Netflix special revisits every twist and turn, offering a clearer picture of what actually happened.
📅 The Truth About Jussie Smollett? premieres on Netflix, August 22, 2025.
Why This Documentary Stands Out
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Produced by RAW, the team behind Don’t F**k With Cats and The Tinder Swindler
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Features nearly every major voice connected to the case
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Smollett himself shares his side directly on camera
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Covers new evidence and overlooked witness statements
Unlike sensationalized media coverage, this documentary attempts to piece together facts rather than narratives.
Key Takeaways
1. The Question Mark Matters
The title The Truth About Jussie Smollett? deliberately includes a question mark, highlighting the uncertainty that still clouds this case. The film doesn’t hand you an answer—it gives you the tools to make your own judgment.
2. Guilt or Innocence?
After watching, many viewers may feel Smollett is not guilty of staging the attack. There’s no concrete evidence tying him to the hoax, while the two brothers involved had strong reasons to testify against him.
3. The Role of the Police and Media
The documentary reveals how quickly police and media shaped the narrative. Witnesses who supported Smollett’s account were dismissed or pressured, raising questions about bias and corruption within the Chicago PD.
4. Broken Deals and Legal Fallout
Smollett had already made a deal with prosecutors, which should have ended the case. However, the agreement was overturned, leading to further charges and even jail time—something the Illinois Supreme Court later criticized.
Why You Should Watch
If you’ve followed this case in the media, you’ve likely heard only one version of the story. This documentary offers a rare opportunity to see the bigger picture, hear directly from Smollett, and understand the motivations of those involved.
Fans of Victim/Suspect, Don’t F**k With Cats, or The Tinder Swindler will appreciate the same investigative depth and storytelling style.
Final Thoughts
The Truth About Jussie Smollett? is more than just another true-crime documentary. It’s a reminder of how quickly narratives can be shaped by media and law enforcement. Whether or not you believe Smollett, this film forces viewers to question what we accept as “truth.”
⭐ Rating: 4/5 – A compelling, balanced, and eye-opening documentary.
📺 Now streaming on Netflix from August 22, 2025.
