What did Jussie Smollett say about Kendrick Lamar's "The Heart Part 5" video?

Smollett expressed respect for Lamar but admitted he doesn't fully understand the video's artistic intent and stated he won't release a diss track against him.

Did Kendrick Lamar's "The Heart Part 5" win any awards?

Yes, Kendrick Lamar's "The Heart Part 5" won multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance in 2023.

Who else was featured in Kendrick Lamar's "The Heart Part 5" video?

The video featured deepfaked versions of public figures like Will Smith, O.J. Simpson, and Ye, alongside Jussie Smollett.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Jussie Smollett: No Diss Track for Kendrick Lamar

Jussie Smollett: No Diss Track for Kendrick Lamar

3 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Jussie Smollett doesn't understand Kendrick Lamar's video intent.
Smollett says he respects Lamar but won't release a diss track.
Lamar's 'The Heart Part 5' won multiple Grammy awards.

Jussie Smollett: No Diss Track for Kendrick Lamar

Jussie Smollett recently shared his thoughts on Kendrick Lamar's "The Heart Part 5" music video, which controversially used deepfake technology to depict Smollett alongside other public figures facing scandals. Speaking on Cam Newton's podcast, Smollett admitted he doesn't entirely understand the video's message but affirmed his respect for Lamar as an artist.

Despite the divisive nature of the video, Smollett explicitly stated he would not retaliate with a diss track. "The Heart Part 5," released in 2022, garnered significant attention and multiple Grammy Awards, including best rap song and best rap performance, without an accompanying statement from Lamar.

Smollett, who faced his own legal battles following a staged hate crime incident, emphasized that his close circle knows the truth. The "Empire" actor added that he doesn't anticipate releasing a diss track against Lamar, reinforcing his stance on maintaining artistic respect.