Jussie Smollett sentence after being convicted of lying to CPD expected Thursday

CHICAGO (WLS) — On Thursday, Jussie Smollett returns to a Chicago courtroom to learn his sentence.

This comes three months after the actor was convicted of faking a hate crime against himself.

The big question is if he will he be sent to prison.

RELATED: Jussie Smollett verdict: ‘Empire’ actor guilty of disorderly conduct; defense vows appeal

The former “Empire” actor told Chicago police he was the victim of a racist and homophobic attack in Streeterville back in January 2019.

After a long investigation and years in court, Smollett was convicted of five of six felony counts of disorderly conduct for lying to police. He faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison per count.

Several big names are coming to Smollett’s defense, writing letters to the judge asking for leniency.

RELATED: Jussie Smollett trial’s only Black juror found case ‘sad,’ still wonders about motive

Among them is the Rev. Jesse Jackson, writing in part that “Jussie has a long track record of being a deeply engaged and contributing citizen” and that “Jussie has already suffered.”

Actor Samuel L. Jackson and his wife, actress LaTanya Jackson, also wrote the judge a letter, saying in part, “I humbly implore you to please find an alternative to incarceration.”

Cameras will be allowed in the courtroom for Thursday afternoon’s hearing.