Rafer Weigel: The Fox 32 Chicago Journalist Who Broke the Jussie Smollett Hate Crime Hoax Story

Rafer Weigel • March 23, 2023
Rafer Weigel

Rafer Weigel is a renowned journalist and television anchor who has been with Fox News Chicago since 2010. Over the years, Weigel has covered several high-profile stories, breaking news, and investigative reports that have won him three Emmy Awards.

In 2019, Weigel broke the story that exposed the Jussie Smollett hate crime hoax, a scandal that made headlines around the world. Smollett, an actor on the hit TV show Empire, claimed that he was attacked by two men who shouted racist and homophobic slurs, poured bleach on him, and put a noose around his neck.

The story made national headlines, with celebrities, politicians, and the public condemning the alleged hate crime. However, Weigel was skeptical of Smollett's claims and started digging deeper into the story.

Through his investigation, Weigel found inconsistencies in Smollett's story and discovered that two Nigerian brothers, who had worked with Smollett on Empire, were the ones who staged the attack. Weigel's report led to a grand jury indictment of Smollett on 16 felony counts for filing a false police report. The charges were later dropped by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, but the case remains controversial and unresolved.

Weigel's coverage of the Smollett case made him a household name and earned him widespread recognition and praise. His reporting was praised for its accuracy, integrity, and dedication to the truth. Weigel's investigative journalism skills were on full display as he worked tirelessly to uncover the facts and expose the truth.

However, Weigel's career has not been without controversy. In 2017, he was the victim of revenge porn when an ex-girlfriend posted explicit photos of him online. Weigel took legal action against his ex-girlfriend and became an advocate for victims of revenge porn, speaking out about the devastating effects it can have on a person's life.

Despite this setback, Weigel continued to excel in his career, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and viewers alike. He has covered many other high-profile stories, including the Laquan McDonald shooting, the Jason Van Dyke trial, and the ongoing violence in Chicago.

Throughout his career, Weigel has remained committed to journalistic excellence and the pursuit of truth.


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