Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, the two brothers that were accused of attacking Jussie Smollett in Chicago earlier this year, have sued the actor’s lawyers for defamation.
The brothers’ attorney Gloria Schmidt announced the federal suit on Tuesday in Chicago against attorneys Mark Geragos as well as Tina Glandian and said they’ve told lies about the brothers, which has affected them personally and professionally.
The lawsuit also states Smollett’s attorneys said they “criminally attacked” and “criminally battered” the “Empire” star, all while wearing white face, which has also sullied their reputation.
Additionally, Glandian is accused of saying the brothers illegally moved steroids, and that Abimbola Osundairo was involved in a sexual relationship with Smollett. And because they visit family in Nigeria, where homosexuality is illegal, he could be in danger.
“We have sat back and watched lie after lie being fabricated about us in the media, only so one big lie can continue to have life,” read a statement from the brothers.
“These lies are destroying our character and reputation. Anyone who knows us know we do not have hate, that is not who we are. We will no longer sit back and allow these lies to continue.”
The suit also states that Geragos and Glandian portrayed Smollett as a “wholly innocent victim,” even after he did community service and gave his $10,000 bond to the City of Chicago, so the 16-count indictment against him would be dropped.
In late January, Smollett, who’s black and homosexual, said he was attacked by two white men on his way to a Subway restaurant in Chicago, and they hurled racial and homophobic epithets at him. He also said the men placed a noose around his neck and poured a foreign liquid substance on him.
Then on February 13, the Osundairo brothers were arrested and accused of attacking the actor. Although, they were released, they reportedly had issues finding work due to the scandal.
