Jussie Smollett, the former Empire star, announced that he is officially engaged to his long-time boyfriend, Jabari Redd, following a romantic proposal on June 20, 2025.
He shared the exciting news on Instagram, writing, “I’ll be spending my birthday with my Fiancé… He said YES,” just ahead of turning 43 on June 21.
The proposal took place on a quiet street near a restaurant, where Smollett got down on one knee, and Redd responded with a joyful, tearful reaction captured in several frames.
The post included full documentation of the tender moment—from the kneeling and visible elation to Smollett placing the engagement ring on Redd’s finger, followed by an affectionate embrace and champagne celebration.
The announcement sparked an outpouring of love from family, celebrities, and fans.
Jurnee Smollett, Jussie’s sister, added, “Screaming with tears of joy! My whole heart loves both of you… Welcome to the family @jabariredd ❤️❤️.”
Related: Olympian Jack Woolley Just Got Engaged to His Boyfriend
Jazz Smollett shared her excitement with a flood of emoji reactions and a message of blessings saying, “I was WAITINGGGGGG!!!!!!… congratulations you 2‼️‼️ I pray blessings cover you.”
Even Jussie’s former Empire co-star, Taraji P. Henson, joined the celebration with a simple but heartfelt comment: “MY BABIES ❤️❤️❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾.”
Theirs is a love that blossomed on and off screen.
The pair co-starred in Smollett’s sophomore directorial effort, the 2024 film The Lost Holliday, where Jussie portrays Jason Holliday and Redd plays his partner Damien, whose death sets the emotional narrative in motion.
The film also features Vivica A. Fox and was praised for its themes of grief, resilience, and love, mirroring the couple’s real-life journey.
In a 2024 interview with People, Smollett called The Lost Holliday “such a hopeful film,” saying the story resonates deeply with his own life philosophy: “Well, what is tomorrow going to bring me?” .
This joyous milestone comes after a tumultuous few years for Smollett.
He was embroiled in a highly publicized 2019 hate crime incident in Chicago that later became a controversial court case, including criminal convictions that were overturned in November 2024 by the Illinois Supreme Court, ruling that his rights were violated.
In May 2025, Smollett settled a civil lawsuit with the City of Chicago, agreeing to pay $50,000 to charity while maintaining his innocence .
The engagement news arrives amid a banner year for celebrity proposals, following royalty and Hollywood stars alike, and reminding fans that love endures even after hardship.
Related: Strictly’s Joe McFadden Engaged to Longtime Boyfriend Rob