“The legal cloud of Jussie Smollett’s indictment hangs over “Empire” as the series returns with new episodes Wednesday, raising questions as to whether that uncertainty and off-screen drama will derail the Fox primetime soap — or perversely, temporarily spur interest in it.

“The show launches the second half of its 18-episode season the same week that Smollett, who plays the character of Jamal, appeared in court, having been indicted on 16 felony counts for allegedly staging an attack on himself and subsequently providing false information to the police.

“Smollett has denied the charges. On Tuesday, he attended a hearing regarding whether to allow cameras in the courtroom.”

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