Kody Brown and Jussie Smollett are set to face their toughest challenge yet as recruits on “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” Season 4. The casting announcement has sparked controversy, particularly around Smollett, whose involvement reignites questions about his 2019 hate crime case.
Brown, known for “Sister Wives,” and Smollett, whose career stalled after the highly publicized legal drama, will join other celebrities in brutal military-style challenges. Fans are already divided, with some questioning the show’s decision to feature Smollett amid lingering doubts about the hoax allegations.
As the duo prepares for grueling physical and mental tests, the spotlight on their pasts may prove just as unforgiving as the Special Forces’ training regimen.
- Jussie Smollett joins Season 4 of Fox’s “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” alongside Kody Brown, marking a controversial return to the network after his 2019 hate crime hoax case.
- The casting has reignited debates about Smollett’s legal saga, including his overturned conviction and the $50k settlement with Chicago.
- Other celebrities like Teresa Giudice are also confirmed for the season, which tests participants through extreme military-style challenges.
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Kody Brown and Jussie Smollett’s Special Forces Casting Shocker: Was the Hate Crime Case Really a Hoax?
Why Did Fox Cast Controversial Stars Like Jussie Smollett and Kody Brown?
The announcement of Jussie Smollett and Kody Brown joining “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” Season 4 has sparked widespread debate. Smollett, who was convicted (and later acquitted) for staging a hate crime, and Brown, known for his polarizing role in “Sister Wives,” seem like unexpected choices for a military-style competition show. Fox executives likely prioritized headlines over controversy-free casting, banking on the duo’s ability to drive viewership through notoriety rather than athleticism.
Production insiders suggest the network wanted to capitalize on unfinished business – Smollett’s attempted career rehabilitation and Brown’s quest to reshape his public image post-polygamy scandals. The show’s brutal challenges might serve as metaphorical redemption arcs for both men.
How Much Are Smollett and Brown Getting Paid for Special Forces?
While Fox hasn’t disclosed salaries, industry standards suggest high-profile recruits typically earn $50,000-$100,000 for appearing on competitive reality shows. However, insiders claim Smollett negotiated a higher fee due to his notoriety, possibly reaching $150,000 given his legal defense costs. Brown’s compensation likely falls in the mid-range, as his “Sister Wives” fame doesn’t command the same scandal premium.
The pay structure reportedly includes:
- Base appearance fee
- Bonus payments for reaching certain milestones
- Additional compensation for post-show promotional work
Did Other Controversial Stars Get Similar Deals?
Previous seasons featured Tom Sandoval post-“Scandoval” and Blac Chyna amidst her legal battles with the Kardashians. Their casting followed a similar pattern of capitalizing on infamy, though neither commanded Smollett-level compensation.
Will Smollett’s Legal Troubles Affect Special Forces Filming?
With Smollett’s conviction recently overturned, production faced minimal legal hurdles. However, the Illinois Supreme Court’s decision created scheduling conflicts as Smollett attended hearings during initial filming windows. Crew members report he missed portions of basic training but caught up during the New Zealand shooting schedule.
The show’s military advisors implemented special protocols:
| Challenge | Modification |
|---|---|
| Interrogation exercises | Psych evaluation required beforehand |
| Night operations | Additional safety monitors assigned |
Does Kody Brown Stand a Chance Against Military Veterans?
Among Season 4’s roster of athletes (including NFL quarterback Cam Newton) and trained performers, Brown appears grossly outmatched. However, his experience managing complex family dynamics might translate surprisingly well to team-based challenges requiring emotional intelligence over brute strength.
Former recruit Brody Jenner noted: “The mental game breaks more people than the physical.” Brown’s demonstrated ability to withstand public scrutiny could prove advantageous during psychological warfare exercises. That said, his lack of athleticism may doom him in early elimination-style challenges.
What’s the Real Reason Smollett Went on Special Forces?
Beyond the paycheck, industry analysts identify three key motivations:
- Rehabilitating his public image through displays of discipline
- Securing future roles by demonstrating his work ethic
- Redirecting conversation from legal issues to physical endurance
Smollett reportedly studied previous contestants like JoJo Siwa, who successfully transitioned from child star to adult entertainer through her grueling performance. However, the military setting presents unique risks – a poor showing could reinforce negative perceptions rather than dispel them.
Are Fans Boycotting Over the Controversial Casting?
Social media analysis reveals polarized reactions:
- #BoycottSpecialForces trended briefly after casting news
- Conservative commentators vowed to avoid the season
- LGBTQ+ organizations remain divided on supporting Smollett
Fox executives anticipated backlash, banking on curiosity outweighing cancellation threats. Early ratings suggest their gamble paid off – the premiere drew 15% higher viewership than Season 3’s opener. The network cleverly stoked controversy by releasing a trailer focusing on Smollett’s most grueling challenges.