What to Expect from The Chi Season 7 on Showtime (and Paramount+)

Get ready to head back to the South Side of Chicago as The Chi returns for its highly anticipated seventh season! Created and executive produced by Lena Waithe, this powerful drama continues to explore the interconnected lives of a group of residents in a vibrant but challenging neighborhood.

Here’s everything you need to know before diving back into the world of The Chi.

Where can I watch Season 7 of The Chi?

The Chi Season 7 is scheduled to premiere on Friday, May 16, 2025, for streaming on Paramount+ with the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME® plan. For those who prefer linear television, the season will make its debut on Showtime on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET/PT.

The Chi Season 7 Plotline: The Women Take Charge

Season 7 of The Chi shows a major change in power dynamics. With Douda (Curtiss Cook) having fallen from his throne at the end of the previous season, the upcoming episodes will center on the pivotal women of the series as they rise to reclaim their power and assert their dominance over the South Side.

The official synopsis teases that as Alicia (Lynn Whitfield) takes a leading role, the women, including Jada (Yolonda Ross) and Kiesha (Birgundi Baker), will topple anything that stands in their way to reach the top. However, this newfound power comes with its set of challenges. Tests of loyalty and the emergence of new rivalries will underscore the singularity of the crown, and its attainment will entail significant sacrifices.

Expect the season to delve into themes of:

• Female Empowerment: The women of The Chi will be at the forefront, navigating leadership and influence in their community.
• Shifting Loyalties: As the power structure shifts, characters may find themselves on opposing sides, testing their alliances.
• New Rivalries: The fight for dominance will inevitably create new conflicts and enemies.
• The Cost of Power: The season will likely explore the sacrifices and difficult choices that come with wielding significant influence.
• Continuing Character Arcs: While the women take center stage, the storylines of Emmett (Jacob Latimore), Papa (Shamon Brown Jr.), and Jake (Michael V. Epps) will undoubtedly continue to evolve as they navigate the changing landscape of their community. The unexpected pregnancy of Kiesha and Emmett will also likely be a major plotline.

The Chi Season 7 Characters: Familiar Faces and Exciting New Additions

The Chi boasts a talented ensemble cast, and Season 7 will see the return of many familiar faces alongside some exciting new additions in guest-starring roles.

Returning Main Cast:

• Jacob Latimore as Emmett Washington
• Lynn Whitfield as Alicia
• Yolonda Ross as Jada Washington
• Shamon Brown Jr. as Stanley “Papa” Jackson
• Michael V. Epps as Jake Taylor
• Birgundi Baker as Kiesha Williams
• Luke James as Victor “Trig” Taylor 

Returning Guest Stars:

• Kadeem Hardison as Professor Gardner
• Chris Lee as Hannibal
• Brett Gray as Damien
• Rotimi as Charles (now a more significant character connected to Pastor Zeke)
• Jackie Long as Keith
• Jill Marie Jones as Bianca
• Daniel J. Watts as Pastor Zeke
• Hannaha Hall as Tiffany
• Jason Weaver as Shaad
• La La Anthony as Dom
• Vic Mensa as Jamal
• Kandi Burruss as Roselyn Perry
• Tai Davis as Tracy Roxboro
• Rolando Boyce as Darnell Robinson
• Ahmad Ferguson as Bakari
• Cortez Smith as Nuck
• Genesis Denise Hale as Maisha
• Joel Steingold as Marcus St. John
• Judae’a Brown as Jemma St. John
• Zaria Imani Primer as Lynae
• L’lerrét Jazelle as Fatima
• Brian Keys as Cairo

New Guest Stars:

• Phylicia Rashad as Renee, someone who truly understands Pastor Zeke.
• Wendy Raquel Robinson as Riley Dalton, a resilient woman who helps others through their hardships.
• Karrueche Tran as Zuri, a woman who constantly finds herself in trouble.
• Kyla Pratt as Angie, Hannibal’s tough wife who prioritizes a happy home.
• Reagan Gomez as Candace, a “lover girl gone bad” with a spicy new love interest.
• Punkie Johnson as Shawnita, a career restaurant manager aiming to whip Smokey’s into shape.
• Tammy Townsend as Nora, a charming entrepreneur with dreams of helping people through her business.

Departing Main Characters:

• Curtiss Cook as Otis “Douda” Perry
• Iman Shumpert as Rob
• Tyla Abercrumbie as Nina
• Alex R. Hibbert as Kevin

Everything Else You Need to Know

• Filming Location: As with previous seasons, The Chi Season 7 was filmed entirely in Chicago, adding to the authenticity and grit of the series.
• Executive Producers: The series is created and executive produced by the Emmy-winning Lena Waithe, along with Common, Justin Hillian, and Jewel Coronel, who also serve as co-showrunners.
• Streaming Success: Season 6 of The Chi was the most-watched season yet on streaming, indicating the show’s strong and growing fanbase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the release date for The Chi Season 7?

It will premiere for streaming on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME on Friday, May 16, 2025, and will air on Showtime on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET/PT.

Where can I watch The Chi Season 7?

You can stream it on Paramount+ with the SHOWTIME plan, or you can watch it on the Showtime cable network.

What is the main storyline of Season 7?

Season 7 focuses on the pivotal women of the South Side as they rise to reclaim power after Douda’s fall, navigating new loyalties and rivalries.

Who are some of the main returning cast members?

Jacob Latimore, Lynn Whitfield, Yolonda Ross, Shamon Brown Jr., Michael V. Epps, Birgundi Baker, and Luke James are all returning.

Are there any new cast members in Season 7?

Yes, Phylicia Rashad, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Karrueche Tran, Kyla Pratt, Reagan Gomez, Punkie Johnson, and Tammy Townsend join in guest-starring roles.

How many episodes will be in Season 7?

The exact number of episodes has not been officially announced yet.

Will there be any behind-the-scenes content?

While a specific behind-the-scenes series like Untucked isn’t typically associated with The Chi, keep an eye on Showtime and Paramount+ for potential bonus content or interviews.

Are any major characters not returning?

Yes, Curtiss Cook (Douda), Iman Shumpert (Rob), Tyla Abercrumbie (Nina), and Alex R. Hibbert (Kevin) will not be returning as main characters.

Get ready for a season of powerful performances, compelling storylines, and the resilient spirit of Chicago’s South Side when The Chi returns!