Saturday has brought with it some major twists and developments into the alleged assault on Empire star, Jussie Smollett (Jamal Lyon) through multiple reports.  Two law enforcement sources with knowledge of the on-going investigation told CNN that Chicago Police believe actor Jussie Smollet paid two men to orchestrate an assault on him.

The men in question, who are brothers, Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo, were originally arrested on Wednesday, but released without charges Friday after Chicago police cited: “Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete.”  Reports also say that the two men are fully cooperating with law enforcement.

Of note is: that the brothers are of Nigerian descent and teach online body building classes. The Chicago Tribune reports that Smollett follows the brothers’ workout page on Instagram.   One brother reportedly appeared in an episode of Empire, but was not credited it for it.

Smollett’s attack happened in the early hours of January 29th on the streets of Chicago, when Smollett told authorities that two men were “yelling out racial and homophobic slurs.”  He also noted that one of the attackers put a rope around his neck and poured an unknown chemical substance on him.

The sources told CNN there are records that show the two brothers purchased the rope found around Smollett’s neck at an Ace Hardware store in Chicago.

“The new direction of the investigation is now based on the premise that Mr. Smollett was an active participant in the incident,” a law enforcement source close to the situation told Deadline.

In a statement from Chicago PD late Saturday: “We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police earlier in the Empire case has in fact shifted the trajectory of the investigation. We’ve reached out to the ‘Empire’ cast member’s attorney to request a follow-up interview.”

So, what do you believe at this juncture?  Do you think Smollett would stage a hate crime on himself? Could the police just not have found the true culprits? Share your theories on this developing story.

While the Chicago Police Department continues its investigation into the attack, and a statement from his reps saying that the PD has found his account “consistent and credible”, Empire star Jussie Smollett (Jamal Lyon) will open up for the first time publicly since the hate crime, perpetrated against him.

The interview will air on Thursday’s Good Morning America on ABC.  Robin Roberts was given the exclusive interview with the talented actor/singer.

After being the victim of a reported racist and homophobic attack on Tuesday in Chicago, Empire favorite, Jussie Smollett (Jamal Lyon) released his first statement since the events transpired.  Yesterday, a Chicago PD spokesman Anthony Guglielmi called the incident an, “assault and battery case.”

Smollett, depending on his recovery and those very cold weather conditions in the Windy City. could be back filming Empire by early next week.

Jussie is is still scheduled to play a concert at the Troubadour in West Hollywood, California tomorrow night.

In his statement, Jussie said: “Beautiful People, let me start by saying that I’m OK.  My body is strong but my soul is stronger.  More importantly I want to say thank you. The outpouring of love and support from my village has meant more than I will ever be able to truly put into words. I am working with authorities and have been 100% factual and consistent on every level.  Despite my frustrations and deep concern with certain inaccuracies and misrepresentations that have been spread, I still believe that justice will be served. As my family stated, these types of cowardly attacks are happening to my sisters, brothers and non-gender conforming siblings daily. I am not and should not be looked upon as an isolated incident. We will talk soon and I will address all details of this horrific incident, but I need a moment to process. Most importantly, during times of trauma, grief and pain, there is still a responsibility to lead with love. It’s all I know. And that can’t be kicked out of me.  With Love, respect & honor… Jussie.”

So, share your thoughts on what Jussie shared after his shocking attack via the comment section below.