“Empire’s Bryshere Gray Charged with Assault & Battery in Virginia”

In a controversial turn of events, Bryshere Gray, best known for his breakout role as Hakeem Lyon on ‘Empire,’ now faces charges of assault and battery after an altercation in Virginia. The individual who reported the incident – Dustin Wilkins, also recognized as Chosen Wilkins – is none other than Gray’s acquaintance.

The mild disagreement between the pair, which unfolded at Homewood Suites, spun into a physical altercation. As Wilkins narrates, Gray allegedly “charged him from behind a car.” Wilkins further elaborated, “As I was trying to explain to him that he couldn’t leave without arranging payment, and that he already has enough issues,… he charged towards me… into me with his shoulder…and started fighting me. All this while, I was recording the incident.”

Wavy.com also spoke with Wilkins, who expressed concern for Gray’s wellbeing, attributing the incident to underlying mental health issues. “Bryshere doesn’t need to be in jail. He wouldn’t survive. What he needs is mental help,” Wilkins emphasized.

TMZ reported that although the police did not arrest Gray, he was held briefly on June 15. However, he was released with Wilkins’ help and is set to appear for his arraignment on Wednesday, June 18.

Fans of the star are coping with the abrupt news of these allegations. Instagram user @just_dionne conveyed her feelings, writing: “He’s been in a dark place for a minute … praying he comes out it soon 🥹🙏🏾”

@dominiquechinn expressed her sympathy for the actor, stating “He hasn’t been the same since empire ended. Wishing him well.”

On the other end, @zevarra_ceo showed his disappointment in the star, but prayed the actor seeks the help he needs: “I was such a fan of him on Empire…I pray he gets the help he needs.”

Reflecting on the episode, Wilkins shared: “Please understand that people make mistakes and we all do! Stop trying to bring someone down and drawing narratives that don’t exist. Still BFF!” Crises indeed test friendships.

It’s noteworthy that this isn’t Gray’s first brush with the law. The actor was arrested in Florida in July 2024 for “trespassing unoccupied structure or conveyance,” The Shade Room reported. Whether these incidents mark a trial of personal turmoil or a blip in his story, only time will tell. As always, The Shade Room will keep you in the know!

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