Messages of support for Jussie Smollett have been circulating ever since his hospitalization caused by a brutal attack. Kevin Hart is one of many public figures who have sent their good wishes to the actor but his statement was criticized by some parts of the virtual community.
The comedian addressed Smollett's predicament while commenting on the awful nature of bigotry. "Sending prayers your way @jussiesmollett," Hart began. "This is unbelievably sad. Why are we going backwards....this is disgusting." His insights continued on Instagram. "I will forever choose love and I will continue to teach my kids how to do the same," he stated in a tribute to Jussie. "Stand strong brother."
As previously reported, the Empire actor was attacked in an apparent hate crime during which two assailants used rope and bleach against him. Racial and homophobic slurs are also said to have been spewed during the incident. Given the belief that Smollett was targetted for being gay and Black, Kevin Hart's expression was thrown back into his face by social media users. The homophobic tweets that resurfaced followed by his refusal to actually offer an apology for them have caused some people to perceived his words as disingenuous. He had, after all, made violence against gay men the punchline to a joke.
Later, the entertainer returned to keep propagating his message of love. "Operation spread love is in full effect damn it. I don't condone or believe in hate, in fact, I despise it. Hate makes me sick to my stomach...It's pointless," he offered. "Cowards & weak individuals embrace it. I choose love...I love all of you. I challenge the rest of the world 2 do the same."