“The Chi” Returns for Season 7 as Lena Waithe’s Powerhouse Drama Hits New Heights
Lena Waithe’s acclaimed drama “The Chi” is officially making a triumphant return this week. The hit series, streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime, will premiere its highly anticipated seventh season on May 16, with its on-air debut following closely behind on May 18 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Set on the vibrant and complex South Side of Chicago, “The Chi” has become a cornerstone of contemporary television storytelling. The new season dives deep into themes of power, legacy, and resilience, with Alicia now taking charge and the women of “The Chi” stepping into the spotlight. As loyalties shift and new rivalries simmer, the battle for dominance unfolds — but in a world where there’s only one crown, victory is never without sacrifice.
Season 6 marked a major milestone for the series, becoming its most-watched season to date on streaming, according to Paramount+. That success is a testament not only to the show’s compelling narratives and unforgettable characters, but also to the vision and cultural insight of its creator, Lena Waithe.
Lena Waithe: A Creator Who Continues to Redefine Television
Lena Waithe has carved out a powerful lane in Hollywood as a writer, producer, and actor who champions underrepresented voices. With “The Chi”, Waithe created more than just a TV show — she crafted a living, breathing portrait of Black life in Chicago, informed by authenticity and driven by nuance. Under her Hillman Grad Productions banner, Waithe has built a brand focused on elevating Black stories with boldness and integrity. Her other acclaimed works include “Twenties”, “Boomerang”, and her Emmy-winning work on “Master of None”.
Her ability to blend cultural specificity with universal themes has earned her a respected place among the industry’s most vital creatives. The longevity and growing viewership of “The Chi” are proof of her resonance with audiences across generations.
“The Chi”: A Star-Studded Cast
The upcoming season brings back a stellar ensemble cast, including Jacob Latimore, Lynn Whitfield, Yolonda Ross, Shamon Brown Jr., Michael V. Epps, Birgundi Baker, and Luke James. Guest stars include Kadeem Hardison, Chris Lee, Brett Gray, Rotimi, Jackie Long, Jill Marie Jones, La La Anthony, Jason Weaver, and many more.
Executive producers Justin Hillian and Jewel Coronel return as co-showrunners alongside Waithe and fellow executive producer Common, adding both creative firepower and cultural authenticity behind the scenes.
“The Chi’s” seventh season isn’t just a return — it’s a revival of the spirit, strength, and stories that have defined the series from the start. With Lena Waithe at the helm, the show continues to rise, proving that its impact is only just beginning.
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