There were rumors that Malik Yoba was deaded on “Empire” because he said that his gay co-star was very active in the gay community. He also unwittingly revealed that the dude Jussie Smollett, who plays Jamal on the show, was gay in real life. Now, Malik backtracked on this, but the damage was done. The word on the street was that Lee Daniel, who is the co-creator, of the show, was p##### at the “outing.” And POOF….Malik was gone from the show, despite being a major player. It was speculated that he was written out of the how for the error.
Malik took the time to dismiss the rumors and then some with Jet Magazine. ((Streets still talking though.))
JET: What is most disheartening aspect of the situation and how have you been able to deal with it?
Malik Yoba:The saddest part is that the same publications and radio stations that will ask you to interview to promote something you’re doing…they never called, never reached out to me to see if any of it is true, but people want to promote it for quick views and likes. The people who will smile in your face, call you their brother and say they support you are the same one’s who will go and promote these untruths. I pray for them all.And so it’s just a sad commentary on the world we live in right now. In over two decades in this business or at any time before I’ve never ever had this type of negativity spoken or written about me. And it’s unfortunate because I have children. I take care of a family through what I do. And unfortunately, people have no regards for that. I’ve chosen to stay in my lane. I know what I’m about. I know what God I serve. I know why I’m here. A wise man said to me years ago – using a football analogy: “They can only hit you if you’re carrying the ball.” And clearly, I have a mission and I’ve been true to that mission for over 30 years and a history and legacy of service –that’s how I’m dealing with it.
It is real out there.