Joe Budden is interested in learning more about Jussie Smollett‘s hate-related attack, which took place at the end of January. The host of State Of The Culture for Revolt wants to see the footage of the attack, in order for him to “shut the f**k up” about what happened that night (Jan. 29).
During Monday’s episode of his show (Feb. 4), Budden clarified that he certainly believes the Empire actor was attacked, however, he doesn’t think Smollett’s recounting of events is the full story.
“Jussie’s story sounds funny, it’s changed a few times…” he said. “Everything about this sounds funny. I’m not saying he wasn’t attacked. He was certainly attacked … I want to make sure that I’m not being as insensitive as I’m known to be because he got his a** beat. But, n***as get they a** beat all the time.”
While Budden extended his well-wishes to Smollett and his loved ones, he also discussed the idea that his story doesn’t appear to make sense to him. He later brings up a Reddit thread about the situation that he thinks aligns a bit better.
“I’m waiting for footage. Just show me the footage and I’ll shut the f**k up,” he continued. “When bad things happen and [famous rich people] want to cover the story, because famous, rich people do f**k sh*t sometimes, you cover the story so you can protect your image, your likeness, and your career,” Budden continued. “I don’t know if we feel the same way if we find out it’s a regular crime.”
Watch his comments above at 10:45. The discussion begins around the 4:50 mark.
