Starting over is never easy, but Jussie Smollett is determined to push forward as he steps into a new era of his acting and entertainment career. The NAACP Image Award winner returned to television in 2025, after a six-year hiatus, with the reality TV show Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test. Smollett joined the fourth season to duke it out in special forces military training against 17 contestants, consisting of influencers, TV personalities, and former professional athletes. He also released a new album, Break Out, signaling an artistic evolution for the 42-year-old. Released on legendary producer Dallas Austin’s Rowdy Records, Smollett’s Break Out topped Apple Music’s R&B/Soul album chart, marking a triumphant return to his music career and a thrilling new creative beginning for the talented actor, filmmaker, and singer.