After nearly a decade on air, The Chi is preparing for its final chapter. Paramount+ with Showtime confirmed that the acclaimed Chicago-set drama, created by Lena Waithe, will conclude with its upcoming eighth season.
Production is scheduled to begin early next year, allowing the creative team to shape a thoughtful and intentional ending for the series.
The decision is another major move under Paramount’s new Showtime regime.
With eight seasons under its belt, The Chi has joined Dexter, Homeland, and Weeds as one of Showtime’s longest-running dramas, second only to Shameless with 11 seasons. Beyond its longevity, it’s the longest-running Black drama in premium cable and streaming history.
Lena Waithe reflected on the decision in an Instagram post.
“When I created The Chi, it wasn’t just about making a TV show—it was about owning our narratives and telling our stories with truth, care, nuance and complexity,” she wrote. “It was about showing the soul of the South Side—the beauty, the pain, the grit, and the magic that lives in every block, and in every family.”
Waithe says ending with Season 8 is about protecting the integrity of the story and its characters.
“I know, for the sake of our story and our characters, it’s the right thing. I am committed to delivering a final season that our Chi Family deserves,” she said.
“To helm the longest-running Black drama on television is a huge honor and it’s something I don’t take lightly,” Waithe added.
As we await the final season, Waithe assured us that this isn’t the end of her storytelling journey.
“I still plan on telling stories, continuing to build community, and making space for us all to be seen,” she said.
