Joel Smollett, who is known as the patriarch of the Smollett family, had a big impact on the lives of children who have gone on to make big names in the entertainment business.
Even though he doesn’t like being the centre of attention, his impact and devotion to his family have left a lasting mark. This story goes into great detail about Joel’s life, including his childhood, his work, and the things he left behind.
Early Life and Background
There, on October 8, 1956, Joel Smollett was born. Before his family moved to the United States, he spent some of his early years in Poland. Joel was raised in the Jewish faith by his parents, Peter Smollett, who was born in Poland and is Jewish, and Molly Hirschenson, who is Russian.
He became an American citizen when he and his family finally moved in the United States. He came from a poor family, but his life was marked by his dedication to civil rights and family values.
Job Search and Fighting for Civil Rights
Joel Smollett worked as a cable splicer in the United States, which was a job that helped support growing families. But his efforts went beyond what he did at work. He worked hard to promote justice and equality during the civil rights movement.
In the San Francisco Bay Area, he met Janet, who would become his wife. They became close because they both cared a lot about civil rights, which set the stage for a strong and long-lasting relationship.
Life with Family and a Legacy
Janet and Joel Smollett got married when they were twenty-one years old. They had six children together: Jojo, Jazz, Jussie, Jurnee, Jake, and Jocqui. The Smollett family home was a safe place where kids were urged to be creative and express themselves. Joel’s love for his family was clear in the close relationship he built between his children. They often say that he was a big part of their lives.
The Smollett Children
Who is Jojo Smollett? Jojo was born on August 28, 1977, and is the oldest of the Smollett children. In the 1990s, he played parts in films like “The Practice” and “City of Hope.” He is also an actor and director.
- Janet Jazz Smollett: Jazz was born on April 1, 1980, and she acts and makes films. She is known for her parts in “I Want You” and “Living by Design with Jake and Jazz.” She graduated from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University.
- Jussie Smollett was born on June 21, 1982. He is the most well-known of the brothers. He has won awards as an actor, director, and producer, and his part on the TV show “Empire” made him famous.
- Sharmee Smollett: Jurnee is a skilled actor who was born on October 1, 1986, and has more than 20 acting credits. Some of her most well-known parts are in “Birds of Prey” and “Eve’s Bayou.”
- Born on July 29, 1989, Jake Smollett is also an actor who has been in “The Middleman” and “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper.”
- The youngest of the Smollett children, Jocqui was born on August 1, 1993. He has been in films like “On Our Own” and “Amanda’s Return.”
His Death and Leave Behind
He died on January 7, 2015, after a long fight with cancer. He was 58 years old. Even though his family didn’t say what kind of cancer he had, they made sure he got the best care possible while he was sick. Kids who were raised by Joel continue to honour his memory by doing well in their own areas and fighting for social justice.
In conclusion
Joel Smollett’s life was marked by his steadfast love for his family and his fight for civil rights. As the head of the Smollett family, he set the stage for his children’s success in the show business. Joel’s story shows how strong love, commitment, and one person can be, and how they can affect future generations.