Jussie Smollett is unlikely to be reprising his role in the sixth season of the Fox TV series Empire.
The actor, who plays the character of Jamal, was accused of staging a racist and homophobic attack on himself. He has always denied the allegation.
Smollett was charged with allegedly lying to police, but Chicago prosecutors later dropped the case.
The TV network Fox said in a statement: "By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett's option for season six, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to Empire."
A spokesperson for Smollett said: "We've been told that Jussie will not be on Empire in the beginning of the season but he appreciates they have extended his contract to keep Jamal's future open.
"Most importantly he is grateful to Fox and Empire leadership, cast, crew and fans for their unwavering support."
Smollet's character Jamal Lyon was removed from the final two episodes of season five of Empire after his arrest in February.
