The Smollett family has been a household name in the entertainment industry for decades, with several members making a name for themselves in film and television. While Jussie Smollett has been in the headlines in recent years for his personal life and career, his sister Jurnee Smollett has been quietly building a successful acting career, earning her first Emmy nomination in 2020. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Jurnee Smollett’s life, career, and what makes her a talented and versatile actress.
A Family of Actors
Jurnee Smollett was born on October 1, 1986, in New York City, to Janet and Joel Smollett. She is the fourth of six children, and her siblings, including Jussie, Jake, Jocqui, Jojo, and Jazz, are all involved in the entertainment industry in some way. Growing up in a family of actors, Jurnee was exposed to the world of acting from a young age and began her career as a child actress.
Early Career
Jurnee’s early career began with small roles in films and television shows, including the 1991 film “The Mighty Ducks” and the popular television show “Full House.” She also appeared in several stage productions, including a Broadway production of “The Wiz.” As she grew older, Jurnee began to take on more substantial roles, including a recurring part on the television show “NYPD Blue” and a starring role in the 1997 film “Eve’s Bayou.”
Breakthrough Role
Jurnee’s breakthrough role came in 1997 when she was cast as the lead in the film “Eve’s Bayou.” The film, which was directed by Kasi Lemmons, tells the story of a young girl growing up in a wealthy African American family in Louisiana in the 1960s. Jurnee’s performance in the film earned her critical acclaim and recognition within the industry.
Rise to Prominence
In the early 2000s, Jurnee began to take on more mature roles, including a starring part in the 2001 film “The Great Debaters.” The film, which was directed by Denzel Washington, tells the story of a high school debate team from a poor African American neighborhood in Texas. Jurnee’s performance in the film earned her a NAACP Image Award nomination.
Television Career
In addition to her film work, Jurnee has also had a successful television career. She has appeared in several television shows, including “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Friday Night Lights,” and “Parenthood.” In 2016, she was cast as a series regular on the WGN America series “Underground,” which tells the story of a group of slaves who escape from a plantation in Georgia.
Emmy Nomination
In 2020, Jurnee earned her first Emmy nomination for her role as Letitia “Leti” Lewis in the HBO series “Lovecraft Country.” The series, which is based on the novel of the same name by Matt Ruff, tells the story of a young African American man who travels across the country in the 1950s, encountering supernatural creatures and racist violence along the way. Jurnee’s performance in the series earned her widespread critical acclaim and recognition within the industry.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Jurnee has earned numerous awards and nominations for her performances. In addition to her Emmy nomination, she has also been nominated for several NAACP Image Awards and a Screen Actors Guild Award.
| Award | Year | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| NAACP Image Award | 2008 | Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture | Nominated |
| Screen Actors Guild Award | 2017 | Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series | Nominated |
| Emmy Award | 2020 | Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series | Nominated |
Personal Life
In addition to her acting career, Jurnee is also a wife and mother. She has been married to musician Josiah Bell since 2010, and the couple has one son together. Jurnee is also a advocate for social justice and has been involved in several charitable organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Philanthropy
Jurnee is a strong advocate for social justice and has been involved in several charitable organizations throughout her career. In 2018, she was named a ambassador for the ACLU, and has worked with the organization to promote social justice and equality. She has also worked with the NAACP to promote education and advocacy for African American communities.
Impact
Jurnee’s impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. As a talented and versatile actress, she has paved the way for other African American women in the industry. Her commitment to social justice and philanthropy has also made her a role model for young women around the world.
Conclusion
Jurnee Smollett is a talented and versatile actress who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. From her early days as a child actress to her current status as a leading lady, Jurnee has proven herself to be a dedicated and passionate performer. Her commitment to social justice and philanthropy has also made her a role model for young women around the world. As she continues to take on new roles and challenges, there is no doubt that Jurnee Smollett will remain a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry for years to come.
Who is Jurnee Smollett?
Jurnee Smollett is an American actress, known for her versatility and range in various film and television roles. Born on October 1, 1986, in New York City, she began her acting career at a young age, initially appearing in television shows and films alongside her siblings. Jurnee’s early start in the entertainment industry helped her develop her craft and eventually led to more prominent roles.
Throughout her career, Jurnee has demonstrated her ability to take on diverse characters, from drama and comedy to action and science fiction. Her performances have earned her numerous award nominations, including an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Leti Lewis in the HBO series ‘Lovecraft Country’. Jurnee’s talent and dedication to her craft have solidified her position as a respected actress in the entertainment industry.
What are some of Jurnee Smollett’s notable roles?
Jurnee Smollett has appeared in a wide range of notable roles throughout her career. Some of her most notable performances include her portrayal of Eve in the 1997 film ‘Eve’s Bayou’, for which she received critical acclaim and several award nominations. She also played the role of Jess Merriweather in the 2007 film ‘The Great Debaters’, alongside Denzel Washington.
In addition to her film work, Jurnee has also had success in television, with notable roles in series such as ‘Friday Night Lights’, ‘True Blood’, and ‘Underground’. Her performance as Leti Lewis in the HBO series ‘Lovecraft Country’ earned her an Emmy nomination and further solidified her position as a talented and versatile actress.
Is Jurnee Smollett related to Jussie Smollett?
Yes, Jurnee Smollett is the sister of Jussie Smollett, an American actor and singer. The two siblings began their acting careers together, often appearing in the same television shows and films. Jussie is best known for his role as Jamal Lyon in the Fox series ‘Empire’, while Jurnee has established herself as a talented actress in her own right.
Despite their shared profession and occasional collaborations, Jurnee and Jussie have maintained their individuality and pursued distinct paths in the entertainment industry. Jurnee’s success is a testament to her own talent and dedication, and she has established herself as a respected actress in her own right.
What awards and nominations has Jurnee Smollett received?
Throughout her career, Jurnee Smollett has received numerous award nominations for her performances. One of her most notable nominations was for an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Leti Lewis in the HBO series ‘Lovecraft Country’. She has also received nominations for her work in films such as ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and ‘The Great Debaters’.
In addition to her nominations, Jurnee has also won several awards for her performances. She has received awards from organizations such as the NAACP Image Awards and the Black Reel Awards, recognizing her contributions to the entertainment industry and her talent as an actress.
What is Jurnee Smollett’s current project?
Jurnee Smollett’s current projects include her role as Leti Lewis in the HBO series ‘Lovecraft Country’, for which she received an Emmy nomination. She has also appeared in the DC Comics film ‘Birds of Prey’, playing the role of Dinah Lance, also known as Black Canary.
In addition to her acting work, Jurnee is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, using her platform to raise awareness for social justice causes and support organizations that promote equality and empowerment.
Is Jurnee Smollett married?
Jurnee Smollett is married to Josiah Bell, an American musician and actor. The couple met in 2010 and became engaged in 2010, before marrying in 2010. Josiah has appeared in various films and television shows, and the couple has collaborated on several projects together.
Jurnee and Josiah have one child together, a son named Hunter Zion Bell, born in 2016. The couple is known for their strong relationship and often shares glimpses into their personal life on social media.
What is Jurnee Smollett’s net worth?
Jurnee Smollett’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million, accumulated from her successful acting career in film and television. Her versatility and range have allowed her to take on a wide range of roles, from drama and comedy to action and science fiction.
In addition to her acting work, Jurnee has also earned income from endorsement deals and other business ventures. Her net worth is expected to continue to grow as she takes on new projects and expands her presence in the entertainment industry.