"The Chi," the groundbreaking Showtime drama exploring life on Chicago's South Side, has concluded its eight-season run, cementing its status as the longest-running Black drama in premium cable history. Creator Lena Waithe and the show's cast and crew are reflecting on the series' journey, its impact on contemporary Black television, and its dedication to humanizing its characters and their community.
Waithe, a Chicago native, conceived "The Chi" in 2015 with the aim of offering a counterpoint to what she saw as sensationalized and narrow depictions of her hometown. Frustrated by media portrayals that often overlooked the humanity of its residents, she set out to tell stories that reflected the complexities of Black life in an urban setting. The series premiered in 2018, aiming to center the full spectrum of Black humanity and its intricacies at a time when such portrayals were scarce on television.
"The Chi" distinguished itself by focusing on the people affected by systemic issues rather than the institutions themselves. The ensemble drama followed the interwoven lives of a resilient community, exploring their everyday struggles, joys, and aspirations. While the show did not shy away from confronting realities like violence and its impact, as seen in its first season which centered on the fallout from neighborhood murders, its core mission was to portray characters as fully realized individuals.
"The whole point is to prove that these people are fully realized, not just stereotypes," said co-showrunner and executive producer Justin Hillian. "Every number that goes in the death column is somebody’s son. They have a father, they have a mother, they have cousins, brothers. You know, these people matter."
The series' commitment to multifaceted storytelling allowed for a diverse ensemble cast and a wide range of narratives. Characters like Emmett, Kiesha, Kevin, Brandon, Ronnie, and their families navigated personal challenges, trauma, and growth, often forming bonds that showcased community resilience. The show also pushed boundaries by exploring complex themes such as mental health, LGBTQ+ experiences, and Black masculinity.
"We create a world where these characters are all so human, and they feel like us," Waithe explained. "They remind us of people we know. They remind us of ourselves."
The show's longevity was a testament to its ability to evolve and resonate with audiences. Co-showrunner Jewel Coronel noted that the series aimed to capture the fullness of the human experience, balancing moments of levity with hardship. The series finale, for example, featured the long-awaited wedding of Kiesha and Emmett, highlighting a journey from teenage acquaintances to devoted partners and parents.
Cast members shared how "The Chi" was a transformative experience, offering them opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Ahmad Ferguson, who played Bakari, spoke about his character's underdog story resonating with his own determination to overcome challenges. Shamon Brown Jr., who joined the show at age 13 as Papa, reflected on how growing up on the series shaped him and provided a different stepping stone compared to other child actors.
"I felt like it was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I can speak for a lot of the other kids who grew up on the show with me when I say it definitely shaped us; not only for our future careers but our lives in general," Brown said.
Veteran actors also contributed to the show's rich tapestry, with cast members like Birgundi Baker expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside legends and learn from their experience.
Looking back, the cast and crew expressed pride in the show's authentic representation of culture and its ability to make viewers feel seen. "I’d like to be remembered for the way we honestly represented the culture," Baker stated. "There are all types of Black people on the show. No matter your complexion, your sexuality, or your body, we show everything."
Waithe hopes the legacy of "The Chi" is one that not only reflected who its characters were but also showed who they could become, encouraging audiences to see the world beyond their own experiences and to continue conversations about humanity and the human experience across generations.
"The Chi" streams on Paramount+.