Content Warning: This article contains descriptions of domestic violence.
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Once hailed as Hollywood royalty for his role on "Empire," Bryshere Gray's life has taken a dramatic turn. The actor, who gained fame playing Hakeem Lyon, has since faced a series of legal troubles and negative attention that have overshadowed his early success.
Bryshere Gray's Rise to Stardom
Bryshere Gray, also known by his stage name "Yazz the Greatest," was born and raised in West Philadelphia. His career began in music, performing at festivals and releasing his debut single, “Respect,” in 2013. However, his big break came in 2015 when he was cast in the Fox musical drama "Empire." At just 22 years old, Bryshere became a household name, starring alongside Taraji P. Henson, Terrence Howard, and Jussie Smollett.
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A String of Legal Troubles
The transition from rising star to troubled actor began in 2019 when Bryshere was pulled over in Chicago. The police found discrepancies in his car's registration and discovered he was driving without a license. These misdemeanors were just the beginning of his legal issues.
In 2020, Bryshere's life took a darker turn. After moving out of his rented apartment, he was sued by his landlord for over $26,000 in damages, including clogged toilets, used condoms, and dog feces left throughout the property. However, the most significant incident occurred in July 2020 when his wife, Candace Jimdar, ran into the streets seeking help.
Candace told police that Bryshere had assaulted her for several hours and strangled her until she lost consciousness. She was taken to the hospital with visible injuries, and Bryshere was involved in a nine-hour standoff with a SWAT team before being taken into custody. He was charged with felony aggravated assault, misdemeanor assault, and misdemeanor disorderly conduct. Bryshere pled guilty and was sentenced to 10 days in county jail and three years of probation, starting in May 2021.
Bryshere Gray in a 2022 mugshot
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Continued Legal Issues and Attempts at a Comeback
Bryshere’s legal troubles didn’t end there. In November 2022, he was involved in another domestic violence incident. A woman he was dating called the police, fearing for her safety after he allegedly threw a box of food at her and pulled her hair. Bryshere had another domestic-related disturbance the previous month and failed to inform his probation officer, resulting in a probation violation and additional charges.
Despite these challenges, Bryshere has tried to make a comeback. Rumors circulated in late 2023 that he was a victim of sexual abuse by Will Smith and Sean Combs, though these claims have not been corroborated. In January 2024, Bryshere returned to social media after a long hiatus, sharing an optimistic post about the future. Fans were hopeful that he was turning over a new leaf.
However, in July 2024, Bryshere was arrested again in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Broward County records indicate he was charged with trespassing at or near Cheetah Gentlemen's Club. He posted a $150 bond and was released the same day. He marked his release with an Instagram post about perseverance and confidence.
As Bryshere Gray faces ongoing legal challenges, his once-promising career remains in jeopardy. His story is a stark reminder of how quickly life can change, and the importance of seeking help when needed.
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