Chicago police deny reports Jussie Smollett staged attack; police questioning ‘persons of interest’

CHICAGO -- (WGN) -- Chicago police have denied reports that "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett staged an attack, and said they are questioning two "persons of interest" in the case.

Some media outlets Thursday evening reported police were investigating whether the actor staged the attack because he was being written off "Empire." However, Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said information about the incident being a hoax was unconfirmed. He said the sources were "uninformed and inaccurate."

After the media reports, 20th Century Fox released the following statement:

“The idea that Jussie Smollett has been, or would be, written off of EMPIRE is patently ridiculous. He remains a core player on this very successful series and we continue to stand behind him.”

Earlier Thursday, Guglielmi said two people were being questioned regarding the alleged attack. Police sources said the two men are now considered suspects. Sources said the two are brothers of Nigerian descent and live in Chicago. One of them played an extra on "Empire.

Chicago police said the two men were picked upon their arrival at O'Hare International Airport Thursday.