Jussie Smollett gave an emotional speech at a gig on Saturday night (02Feb19) just days after he was allegedly assaulted in a racist and homophobic attack.
The actor/ singer opened his concert at the Troubadour in West Hollywood by telling the audience he had to play the show because he couldn't let his attackers "win".
"The most important thing I can say is just, keep it simple and that I'm okay," the visibly upset star shared. "I'm not fully healed yet but I'm going to and... I'm going to stand strong with y'all.
"I had to be here tonight y'all. I couldn't let those motherf**kers win."
The long-planned concert was Jussie's first public appearance since he was allegedly assaulted outside his apartment in Chicago on Tuesday (29Jan19). The Empire actor was reportedly beaten and had a noose tied around his neck by masked men.
Police officers are investigating the incident and have released images of two people they want to question.
According to TMZ, there were more security guards at the venue on Saturday night, while a meet and greet event that was due to take place before the show was cancelled by organisers "for security reasons".
Jussie thanked fans for their support in a statement on Friday and insisted he was helping police with their investigation into the alleged assault.
"My body is strong but my soul is stronger," he said. "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.
"Despite my frustrations and deep concern with certain inaccuracies and misrepresentations that have been spread, I still believe that justice will be served."
