Actor Jussie Smollet has denied reports suggesting that he played a role in his own attack.
Attorneys for the "Empire" actor on Saturday issued a statement saying Smollet is "devastated" with the recent developments in his case, reports variety.com.
"It is impossible to believe that this person could have played a role in the crime against Jussie or would falsely claim Jussie's complicity," said the lawyers, Victor P. Henderson and Todd S. Pugh.
They said Smollet is "the victim of a hate crime" and will continue to cooperate with investigators.
"He has now been further victimised by claims attributed to these alleged perpetrators that Jussie played a role in his own attack," lawyers added.
Earlier this week, media reports here said Smollet, who was allegedly attacked by several men last month, had himself planned the attack.
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Following the reports, Chicago Police started investigating and found the reports "unconfirmed by case detectives".
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