Reuters People News Summary

Following is a summary of current people news briefs.

Chicago judge may tap special prosecutor to review actor Jussie Smollett's case

The case of ex-"Empire" actor Jussie Smollett, who sparked a firestorm in Chicago by reporting a racist attack authorities have ruled a hoax, returns to court on Friday, when local media say a judge may tap a special prosecutor to review the case. The actor, who is black and gay, stunned the city when he told police on Jan. 29 that two masked men threw a noose around his neck and poured chemicals on him while yelling racist and homophobic slurs and expressing support for U.S. President Donald Trump.

Mexican musician Celso Pina, accordion 'rebel,' dies at 66

Mexican musician Celso Pina, famed as "the rebel of the accordion" for mixing eclectic styles with traditional Colombian cumbia, died on Wednesday of a heart attack in his hometown of Monterrey, his record label La Tuna Records said. He was 66 years old, according to local media.

Michael Jackson's ex-publicist touts foundation to 'protect' legacy

A former publicist for Michael Jackson on Thursday announced plans for a charitable foundation not affiliated with the late pop singer's family or estate, intended to defend and promote the legacy of the controversial entertainer. Raymone Bain, who represented Jackson in 2005 and 2006, said the Michael Jackson Legacy Foundation would seek to raise money for the charitable causes Jackson supported during his life, including the advancement of civil rights for African Americans.

Harvey Weinstein to be arraigned again ahead of criminal trial

Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday morning on an indictment in connection with his upcoming criminal trial, a spokesman for the Manhattan district attorney said on Thursday. The contents of the indictment could not immediately be determined. The spokesman for Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance declined to comment on the substance of the indictment.

Twerking hillbilly? Yes. Cheater and liar? No, says Miley Cyrus

Pop star Miley Cyrus on Thursday said she was no angel, but angrily denied rumors she had cheated on her estranged husband, actor Liam Hemsworth. In a series of postings on Twitter a day after Hemsworth filed for divorce after just seven months of marriage, the 26-year-old singer said she had nothing to hide.