Sat Oct 04 01:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Smollett’s “Reset” on ‘Special Forces’ Hits Snag After Tense Confrontation
**Los Angeles, CA** – Jussie Smollett’s attempt at a career “reset” on FOX’s “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” got off to a rocky start during the season premiere. The former “Empire” star, hoping to put his controversial 2019 hate crime case behind him, faced immediate scrutiny and a heated confrontation with Directing Staff member and Navy SEAL Jovon Quarles.
Smollett, identified as “Sixteen” during the grueling military-style training, struggled during an uphill carry, prompting a harsh reprimand from Quarles. “Sixteen, what are you doing? What is your problem?” Quarles reportedly yelled. “You all are truly pissing me off, especially you, Sixteen.”
In a later interview, Smollett admitted the confrontation affected him. “I’m okay with taking orders,” he said, “I just don’t like to be yelled at, all up in my face. I don’t like being disrespected.”
The incident occurred after Smollett explained his motivation for joining the show, stating, “I’ve been through some s—, and it’s been very public… I was called a liar, with everybody believing something that was not true. This feels like a reset.” He has consistently maintained his innocence regarding the Chicago incident, which significantly impacted his career.
The episode also featured an awkward exchange between Smollett and “Sister Wives” star Kody Brown. When Brown inquired about Smollett’s full name, a hesitant Smollett revealed his last name, resulting in Brown’s brief but pointed comment: “Second chance.”
While “Vanderpump Rules” star Brittany Cartwright withdrew early, Smollett persevered through the challenging first day. It remains to be seen how he will fare as the competition progresses and if he can truly achieve the “reset” he seeks on “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test.”
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