Smollett was born in New York City, the daughter of Janet, a humanitarian and civil rights activist, and Joel Smollett. Smollett’s parents separated in 1997, later finalizing that six-year separation with divorce in 2003. in casting the role, writer-director Kasi Lemmons envisioned “a light-skinned black child who could convey the nuances of a Creole child in the 60s.” She co-starred with her siblings in the ABC television comedy On Our Own (1994-1995) and guest appeared in numerous television shows: Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper, Full House, Martin, Wanda At Large, House, Grey’s Anatomy, etc. Smollett co-starred with actors Bow Wow and Brandon T Jackson in the 2005 skater movie Roll Bounce.
