After eight seasons telling the stories of Chicago’s South Side, the Showtime drama The Chi is coming to a close. Series creator Lena Waithe has confirmed that the upcoming eighth season will be the show’s last, allowing the team to craft a proper finale for the beloved characters.
The decision to end the series was made ahead of the start of production on Season 8, which is scheduled to begin in early 2026. This timing gives the writers the opportunity to plan a conclusive ending for the storyline and its large ensemble cast.
Why The Chi is Ending After Season 8
In a public statement, Lena Waithe explained that the choice to end the series was a creative one, made after careful thought about the future of the story and its characters. She stated that it felt like the right time to bring the narrative to a close.
“After much reflection, we have made the decision to end The Chi with season 8. 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,” Waithe said.
She did not cite network cancellation as a reason for the show’s end. In fact, the series was officially renewed for its eighth season back in May 2025, not long after its seventh season premiered.
The Legacy of The Chi
With its conclusion after eight seasons, The Chi solidifies its place in television history. It is now tied with other Showtime hits like Dexter, Homeland, and Weeds as the second-longest-running series on the network, behind only Shameless, which ran for 11 seasons.
More significantly, the show has become the longest-running Black drama series in the history of premium cable and streaming television. Waithe has often said the show was about more than just entertainment; it was about owning narratives and presenting an authentic picture of a community.
“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. 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 shared.
What to Expect in the Final Season
Production for the eighth and final season is set to begin in early 2026. While specific plot details are still under wraps, the show will aim to resolve the major storylines that were left open at the end of Season 7.
The Season 7 finale included several major twists, including the death of Jada due to her illness and the killing of Alicia. The season ended with Trig and Shaad being charged for Alicia’s murder after being found at the crime scene, setting up a central conflict for the final season.
The final season will feature the return of the main cast, including Jacob Latimore, Luke James, Yolonda Ross, Michael V. Epps, and Lynn Whitfield.
A Platform for Artists
In her statements, Waithe emphasized her gratitude for the team that helped bring the South Side to life, highlighting the importance of providing opportunities for artists both in front of and behind the camera.
“It’s been the honor of my life to build a platform for artists to shine—not just in front of the camera, but behind the scenes as well. To helm the longest-running Black drama on television is a huge honor and it’s something I don’t take lightly,” she said.
She also expressed deep thanks to the writers, actors, and crew, acknowledging their role in building the world of the show over its many seasons. Waithe confirmed that she plans to continue telling stories and creating space for underrepresented voices in the industry.
The seventh season of The Chi, which concluded in August 2025, was the show’s most successful, delivering its most-streamed season premiere. The series is produced by 20th Television and is executive produced by Waithe, Common, and Aaron Kaplan, among others.
Also Read: The Chi Season 7 Finale “Rebirth” Release Date, Major Plot Twists, and What to Expect Next
