Joel Smollett was not a household name, yet it is impossible to deny his impact as a father and civil rights advocate. Joel was a patriarch of the Smollett family and the backbone of the success of his six children. His unshaken belief in his values and his family made him a man of integrity.
This article would discuss the life of Joel Smollett, his family, career, and his legacy.
Who Was Joel Smollett?
Joel Smollett was born on the 8th of October 1956 in Russia. He was born and raised in a Jewish family. His father’s name was Peter Smollett, a Polish-Jewish, while his mother, Molly Hirschenson, was Russian-born.
The family relocated to the United States where Joel got himself an American citizenship. Even though he did not want to be famous, Joel was highly influential in his family and community.
How Old Was Joel Smollett?
Joel Smollett passed on January 7, 2015. He died when he was 58. His passing was the end of a life full of activism, service, and love for family.
What Is The Ethnicity Of The Smollett Family?
The Smolllets are a racially mixed family. Joel Smollett and his wife, Janet are of Russian-Jewish and African American descent respectively. The children they have (like Jurnee Smollett) are biracial, as well from the intertwined family cultures.
Joel Smollett’s Career Journey
Joel Smollett worked as a cable splicer and his occupation consisted of laying and repairing cables in the services of the internet and telephone. Besides his technical involvement, he was equally very active in civil rights movements, particularly during the 1960s. One of his personality traits was his faith in equality and justice.
How Much was Joel Smollett’s Net Worth?
There is no published information regarding the net worth of Joel Smollett at the time of his passing. However, his cultural and familial contributions can not be matched with his financial legacy.
Who Was Joel Smollett’s Wife?
Joel Smollett was married to Janet Smollett. They both were highly focused on social justice and the couple had known each other during a civil rights movement in San Francisco Bay Area. The two had six children and instilled in them the value of creativity, activism and togetherness
Joel Smollett’s Children
Joel and Janet Smollett were parents of six children:
- Jojo Smollett – An actor and producer who has featured in the 1990s.
- Jazz Smollett – is an actor and producer, who works in film and television.
- Jussie Smollett – An actor, director and producer who is more famed as the star of the television series Empire.
- Jurnee Smollett- A celebrated actress who has starred in both Eves Bayou and birds of prey.
- Jake Smollett – An actor and a chef, who has been featured in several TV programs.
- Jocqui Smollett – The youngest brother, who has tried acting and other activities.
Both of the children of Joel have found their own way into the world of entertainment since they are talented in different ways and different values were taught to them by their parents.
What Was The Cause Of Joel Smollett’s Death?
Joel Smollett passed away on January 7, 2015, because of cancer. The family had not publicly identified the type of cancer. It was on the same date his son, Jussie Smollett, appeared on the television program, ‘Empire,’ which was a heartbreaking event in the family.
What Is Joel Smollett’s Legacy?
Joel Smollett has left a legacy of love, activism, and family. He may not have sought the limelight but has left a mark in the success of his children and the morals that he inculcated in his children. The power of devotion, honesty and unity of family are strengths that his life can be witness of.
Wrap Up
It does not seem that Joel Smollett had been renowned during his lifetime but his legacy has been experienced through his offspring as well as in the values he was able to preach. Joel was a father, activist and provider whose legacy still lives. His experience teaches us that it is not necessarily the fame that makes a difference, but the love and support that we provide to people we love.