Bottom (L-R): Laila Odom, Liza Jessie Peterson, Anthony B. Jenkins
Paramount+ is expanding the ensemble for the eighth and final season of The Chi, bringing six new recurring characters to the streets of Chicago. Production began in January under 20th Television, setting the stage for a season packed with drama, tension, and life-or-death decisions.
The newcomers include 1. Daryl Dunning II, who plays Rafi, a hot-headed enforcer loyal to Nuck, and 2. Biko Eisen-Martin as Smitty, a former gangster navigating life with hard-earned wisdom. 3. Akilah A. Walker joins as Amaya, Smitty’s fiery girlfriend determined to carve out a better future.
In addition, 4. Laila Odom steps into the role of Jordan, a nurse with ties to the streets and a complicated relationship with Keith. 5. Liza Jessie Peterson plays Patience, Rashaad’s sharp and principled attorney with a strong activist spirit. 6. Anthony B. Jenkins portrays Devante, the son of Emmett and Shay, who moves in with Emmett and Kiesha after facing troubles at school.
Stakes are higher than ever in the final season
As the series enters its concluding chapter, viewers will see the characters face their coldest winter yet. With legacy, conflict, joy, and heartbreak intersecting, the stakes are elevated, and choices carry consequences that could change lives forever. The narrative promises an emotionally intense season, with each character navigating complex relationships and moral dilemmas.
Returning fan favorites including Jacob Latimore, Birgundi Baker, Luke James, Shamon Brown Jr., Michael V. Epps, Hannaha Hall, and Jason Weaver will continue to anchor the storylines, supported by returning guest stars such as Rolando Boyce, Ahmad Ferguson, Zaria Primer, Cortez Smith, Rotimi, Barton Fitzpatrick, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Kyla Pratt, Reagan Gomez, Amari Noelle Ferguson, Tammy Townsend, Punkie Johnson, Karrueche Tran, L’lerret Jazelle, Jackie Long, Monroe Alise, Kennedy Amaya, and Aina Brei’Yon.
The visionaries behind the series
The Chi was created and is executive produced by Emmy winner Lena Waithe under her Hillman Grad banner. Co-showrunners Justin Hillian for Hillianaire Productions and Jewel Coronel for Uncut Gems oversee production, supported by a strong team of executive producers including Academy Award and Emmy winner Common, Aaron Kaplan, Rick Famuyiwa, Resheida Brady-Anderson, Derek Dudley, Shelby Stone, Naomi Funabashi, Rishi Rajani, and James Rogers III. Deondray Gossfield and Quincy LeNear Gossfield return as co-executive producers and directors for multiple episodes.
The combination of seasoned producers and fresh talent ensures that the final season retains the series’ signature authenticity while introducing new dynamics to keep fans engaged.
Streaming and availability
All previous seasons of The Chi are currently available to stream exclusively on Paramount+ under the Premium Plan. The eighth season continues to deliver gripping narratives set against the backdrop of Chicago, blending character-driven drama with socially resonant themes.
For more details about Paramount+ and to catch the upcoming episodes, visit www.paramountplus.com and follow @ParamountPlus on social media platforms.
Source: Paramount+ press release
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