This image released by Fox shows Jussie Smollett, left, and Terrence Howard in a scene from the “The Depth of Grief” episode of “Empire,” which originally aired on Oct. 31. Smollett’s co-starring role in “Empire” may end up being the pinnacle of his career, industry observers and insiders said as the actor faces criminal charges that he faked a hate crime against himself. (Chuck Hodes/Fox via AP)