Everything You Need to Know About “The Chi” on Paramount+ and Showtime
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Get the inside scoop on The Chi, the groundbreaking drama series exploring life on the South Side of Chicago. Find out about the cast, storyline, and how you can audition when casting calls go live on Project Casting.
Introduction
If you’re looking for an authentic and emotionally gripping portrayal of life in Chicago, look no further than The Chi. This critically acclaimed series dives deep into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of the South Side community, offering a powerful narrative that resonates with audiences across the country. Whether you’re a fan or an aspiring actor, here’s everything you need to know about The Chi and why it continues to capture national attention.
About “The Chi”
The Chi is a drama series created by Emmy-winning writer and actress Lena Waithe. It premiered on Showtime in 2018 and is also available to stream on Paramount+ Premium. The show is known for its realistic and compassionate depiction of Black life in Chicago, offering interwoven storylines that reflect the complexities of urban life, love, and survival.
The term “Chi” is a local nickname for Chicago, and the show brings this city to life through intimate storytelling and multidimensional characters. Now in its sixth season, The Chi remains a must-watch for viewers who value representation, strong writing, and social commentary.
Season 5 Plot and Themes
In Season 5, The Chi delves into the many joys and complications of Black love, including romance, parenthood, career ambitions, community involvement, and personal growth.
Key storylines from Season 5 include:
- Emmett (Jacob Latimore) navigating co-parenting with Tiff (Hannaha Hall), who moves in with new boyfriend Rob (Iman Shumpert).
- Kevin (Alex Hibbert) finds love through gaming and begins a new relationship with Simone (Antonyah Allen).
- Jake (Michael V. Epps) and Papa (Shamon Brown Jr.) experience emotional ups and downs with Jemma (Judae’a Brown) and Maisha (Genesis Denise Hale).
- Kiesha (Birgundi Baker), now a mother, balances her education while raising baby Ronnie.
- Nina (Tyla Abercrumbie) and Dre (Miriam A. Hyman) try to repair their relationship while supporting Lynae (Zaria Imani Primer).
- Jada (Yolonda Ross) rebuilds her life after cancer, torn between Suede (Bernard Gilbert) and Darnell (Rolando Boyce).
- Roselyn (Kandi Burruss) and Tracy (Tai Davis) clash over a new community initiative.
- Shaad (Jason Weaver) steps up as a mentor to Bakari (Ahmad Ferguson) while exploring new love with Deja (Carolyn Michelle Smith).
- Trig (Luke James) launches a political campaign with support from Douda (Curtiss Cook) and Marcus (Joel Steingold), risking his personal relationships for the greater good.
Season 5 continues to humanize its characters while tackling real-life issues such as parenting, gun violence, community organizing, healing from trauma, and personal redemption.
Main Cast and Characters
The show boasts a diverse and talented ensemble, including:
- Jacob Latimore as Emmett Washington
- Alex R. Hibbert as Kevin Williams
- Michael V. Epps as Jake Taylor
- Shamon Brown Jr. as Papa
- Birgundi Baker as Kiesha Williams
- Yolonda Ross as Jada Washington
- Luke James as Trig Taylor
- Curtiss Cook as Douda
- Kandi Burruss, Jason Weaver, La La Anthony, and Iman Shumpert in standout recurring roles
Each actor brings depth and authenticity to their character, helping The Chi remain grounded in emotional truth.
Meet the Casting Directors of “The Chi”
The compelling performances seen throughout The Chi wouldn’t be possible without the sharp eye and dedication of its casting team. Two key figures behind the casting success of the show are Carmen Cuba and Judith Sunga, both respected professionals in the entertainment industry.
Carmen Cuba
Carmen Cuba is a highly acclaimed casting director whose career took off in 1999 when she collaborated with director Larry Clark (Bully, Ken Park). Since then, she has forged a lasting professional relationship with Oscar-winning director Steven Soderbergh, casting for several of his notable projects including Bubble and Magic Mike’s Last Dance. Her resume also features collaborations with director Ridley Scott on blockbuster films such as The Martian, Alien Covenant, and All the Money in the World.
Known for her keen instinct for discovering raw talent and matching actors to roles with precision, Carmen Cuba brings prestige and depth to every project she joins, including The Chi.
Judith Sunga
Judith Sunga is another vital part of The Chi’s casting team. She has contributed her talents to multiple major productions, including Nope (2022) and the upcoming The Naked Gun (2025). With her role on The Chi dating back to its debut in 2018, Judith has helped shape the evolving ensemble that keeps viewers emotionally invested season after season.
Together, Carmen Cuba and Judith Sunga are responsible for bringing together a cast that feels as authentic as the stories the show tells—balancing fresh talent with seasoned actors to reflect the real-life diversity and complexity of South Side Chicago.
Critical Acclaim and Social Impact
The Chi has been praised for its bold storytelling, compelling performances, and commitment to spotlighting issues that affect Black communities in urban America. It has sparked conversations about justice, policing, education, and political responsibility, becoming more than just a TV show—it’s a cultural touchpoint.
The show’s portrayal of everyday challenges and triumphs resonates strongly with audiences, making it a favorite among both fans and critics. The emphasis on love, identity, and transformation sets it apart from other urban dramas.
Where to Watch “The Chi”
You can watch all seasons of The Chi on Showtime or stream it through Paramount+ Premium. The latest episodes continue to expand the storylines while introducing new characters and challenges, keeping the series fresh and relevant.
Stay Connected for Casting Opportunities
The Chi has a strong legacy of casting fresh talent and diverse actors who reflect the heart of Chicago. If you’re an aspiring actor looking to break into the industry or hoping to land a role in future episodes of The Chi, you’re in the right place.
To audition for a role in The Chi, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as new casting calls and job opportunities become available.
