The Chi: A Powerful and Acclaimed Drama Series
The Chi is a critically acclaimed television drama series that first premiered in 2018 and continues to resonate with audiences for its honest, character-driven storytelling. Created by Emmy® Award winner Lena Waithe, the series explores life on the South Side of Chicago through the interconnected stories of everyday people navigating love, loss, ambition, and community.
Blending coming-of-age themes with real-world struggles, The Chi has established itself as a standout drama known for authenticity, emotional depth, and powerful performances.
What Is The Chi About?
The Chi centers on a group of Chicago residents whose lives become linked by coincidence but bonded by shared experiences. As their stories unfold, the series explores how personal choices, relationships, and community ties shape their paths forward.
Set against the backdrop of Chicago’s South Side, The Chi presents layered narratives focused on connection, resilience, and redemption, offering a grounded portrayal of modern urban life.
Creator and Creative Vision
The series was created by Lena Waithe, an Emmy® Award–winning writer, producer, and actor. Drawing from her own experiences growing up in Chicago, Waithe developed The Chi to tell stories that reflect the complexity and humanity of underrepresented communities.
Her creative vision has helped the show evolve across multiple seasons while maintaining its emotional core and relevance.
Cast Highlights
The Chi features a strong ensemble cast that brings depth and realism to its characters. The series stars:
- Jason Mitchell
- Jacob Latimore
- Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine
Over the years, the show has continued to introduce new characters, expanding its ensemble and creating opportunities for emerging and established talent alike.
Who Are the Casting Directors for The Chi?
Casting plays a major role in the authenticity and success of The Chi, with experienced industry professionals leading the process.
Carmen Cuba
Carmen Cuba is one of the casting directors associated with The Chi. Her career began in 1999 working with filmmaker Larry Clark on Bully, which led to a long-standing collaboration with Oscar-winning director Steven Soderbergh. Her casting credits range from experimental films to major studio features, including Black Bag and The Christophers. Cuba is known for discovering bold, character-driven talent.
Judith Sunga
Judith Sunga also serves as a casting director on The Chi. She is known for her work on The Chi (2018), Nope (2022), and The Naked Gun (2025). Her casting experience spans television and film, contributing to the show’s dynamic and evolving ensemble.
4 Star Casting
Casting for The Chi is handled through 4 Star Casting, a Chicago-based casting office recognized for working on major television series and films. The company frequently casts local and regional talent, helping the series maintain its authentic Chicago feel.
Ratings and Series Details
- Series Type: TV Drama
- Genres: Coming-of-Age, Teen Drama, Drama
- Episode Runtime: Approximately 1 hour
- Rating: TV-MA
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Since its debut, The Chi has received strong audience engagement and consistent reviews, solidifying its place as a long-running and impactful drama series.
Casting Call: Showtime’s ‘The Chi’ Casting Call for Neighbors
CASTING CALL — The Chi, 2026
CASTING BY: 4 Star Casting
PROJECT: The Chi — Showtime Television Series
ROLES: Neighbor
SHOOT DATES: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
AVAILABILITY: Must be available for a 10:30 AM call time
LOCATION: Chicago, IL
RATE: $132.80 / 8 hours
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SEEKING TALENT WHO MATCH THE FOLLOWING SPECS:
NEIGHBOR
• Gender: Female
• Ethnicity: Black
• Age Range: Early 30s
• Must have an active EP Casting profile to be considered
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IMPORTANT NOTICE
This opportunity is cast by 4 Star Casting.
It is completely FREE to apply.
Stay Updated on The Chi Casting Calls
If you’re interested in auditioning for a role on The Chi, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as casting calls and job opportunities for The Chi become available.
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