Jussie Smollett Responds To Rumors That He’s Dating Michael Sam

After about a week of tabloid speculation about his relationship with Michael Sam, Empire star Jussie Smollett is setting the record straight.

Related: Bearded And Casual Jussie Smollett Can Definitely Get It

“Y’all get up out of my face with that, that’s my homie right there,” Smollett told a TMZ paparazzo today while walking in Los Angeles. The 32-year-old star was in high spirits as he left the gym and brushed the rumors off with a smile.

TMZ first wondered if the two were bitten by the love bug after Sam, who recently announced he’s taking a break from football to focus on his education, posted three photos on Instagram of the pals hanging out within the span of a week:

Very excited to be watch @jussiesmollett in the new Season 2 premiere of #EmpireWednesday tonight!!!

A post shared by Michael Sam (@mikeysam52) on Sep 23, 2015 at 3:09pm PDT

Thank you @jussiesmollett for showing love to the Forever Dream Foundation. 100% of the proceeds of this shirt will benefit the Forever Dream Foundation which provides inspiring experiences to underprivileged children. Get yours here: http://represent.com/MichaelSam

A post shared by Michael Sam (@mikeysam52) on Sep 26, 2015 at 11:52am PDT

Thank you @jussiesmollett #lusciouslyon and @empirefox for having me on set today. It was an awesome experience. Can't not wait for #empirewednesday

A post shared by Michael Sam (@mikeysam52) on Sep 29, 2015 at 2:36pm PDT

Sam announced his engagement to ex-boyfriend Vito Cammisano in January, but the two officially split in July.

Related: Michael Sam Reportedly Dunzo With Fiancé Vito Cammisano, Instagram Purge Ensues

Smollett also gracefully responded to 50 Cent’s comments about Empire — the once great rapper recently claimed the red hot show is taking a dip in ratings for having too much “gay stuff.”

“It’s all good,” Smollett said with a smile. “I don’t [think about that.] It’s all love to 50.”

This man is a master in class!

Watch the video over at TMZ.