The Chi (2018)
Lena Waithe's raw, heartfelt drama brings Chicago's South Side to vivid life through stories of community, consequence, and resilience.
The Chi - Series Information
- Original Title: The Chi
- First Air Year: 2018
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Created by: Lena Waithe
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 78
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: January 7, 2018 (United States - TV-MA), January 7, 2018 (Canada - 18+), January 7, 2018 (Germany - 16), January 7, 2018 (France - 18), January 7, 2018 (India - U), January 7, 2018 (Brazil - 16), January 7, 2018 (Spain - 16), January 7, 2018 (South Korea - 19)
- Networks: Showtime, Paramount+ with Showtime
- Alternative Titles: שייטאון (IL), THE CHI (IT)
- Production Companies: Fox 21 Television Studios, Showtime Networks, Kapital Entertainment, Hillman Grad Productions, 20th Television, Elwood Reid, Freedom Road Productions, id8 mm., Hillionaire Productions, Verse Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Chi - Plot
A relevant, timely and distinctive coming-of-age story following a half dozen interrelated characters in the South Side of Chicago. The story centers on Brandon, an ambitious and confident young man who dreams about opening a restaurant of his own someday, but is conflicted between the promise of a new life and his responsibility to his mother and teenage brother back in the South Side.
The Chi - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the South Side story unfold:
Payback is a mother.
Where to Watch The Chi
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The Chi - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Lena Waithe
Main Cast
- Jacob Latimore
- Yolonda Ross
- Michael Epps
- Shamon Brown Jr.
- Alex R. Hibbert
- Birgundi Baker
- Curtiss Cook
- Hannaha Hall
- Tyla Abercrumbie
- Luke James
Writers
- Lena Waithe
- Jewel Coronel
- J. David Shanks
- Mia A. Brumfield
- Racquel Callahan
Executive Producers
- Lena Waithe
The Chi - FAQs
Where can you stream The Chi online?
The Chi is available to stream on Paramount+ (including via Apple TV Channel, Amazon Channel, and Roku Premium Channel), fuboTV, and Spectrum On Demand. Episodes can also be purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home.
Is The Chi based on a true story?
The Chi is not based on a single true story, but creator Lena Waithe drew heavily from her own experiences growing up on Chicago's South Side. The series reflects real social dynamics, community struggles, and cultural realities of that environment, giving it a deeply authentic, autobiographical feel.
Who are the main actors in The Chi?
The Chi stars Jacob Latimore as Emmett, Yolonda Ross as Jada, Michael Epps as Jake Taylor, Shamon Brown Jr. as Papa, Alex R. Hibbert as Kevin, Birgundi Baker as Kiesha, Curtiss Cook as Douda, Hannaha Hall as Tiffany, Tyla Abercrumbie as Nina, and Luke James as Trig.
Will The Chi return for another season?
Yes, The Chi is currently a returning series and remains in active production. Season 7, consisting of 12 episodes, is the most recent season. The show has maintained strong viewership on Showtime and Paramount+ with Showtime, supporting its continued renewal.
What is The Chi TV series about?
The Chi is a coming-of-age drama set on Chicago's South Side, following a web of interconnected characters dealing with ambition, family loyalty, community violence, and personal growth. Critics praise its authentic portrayal of Black urban life, blending emotional depth with sharp social commentary.
How many seasons and episodes does The Chi have?
The Chi has 7 seasons and 78 episodes in total. Each of the first five seasons contains 10 episodes, Season 6 expanded to 16 episodes, and Season 7 features 12 episodes. There is also a Season 0 collection of 4 special episodes.
Who created The Chi and when did it premiere?
The Chi was created by Lena Waithe, the Emmy Award-winning writer and actress. The series premiered on January 7, 2018, on Showtime. Waithe also serves as executive producer and has written multiple episodes throughout the show's run.
What is the content rating for The Chi?
The Chi is rated TV-MA, meaning it is intended for mature audiences only. The series contains strong language, depictions of violence, and adult themes including drug use and sexual content, reflecting the gritty realities of life on Chicago's South Side.
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