Showtime’s The Chi is headed back for its fifth season. Scheduled to premiere on June 24 on-demand for subscribers and June 26 on the premium cabler’s linear channel, season 5 will follow our favorite characters in the Windy City for 10 additional episodes.
The fifth season focuses on love
Season 5 picks up where the last season ended. After Tiff (Hannaha Hall) learned that Emmett (Jacob Latimore) was unfaithful for the dozenth time, she’s ready to continue to explore her options. Despite trying and failing at an open marriage, the trust is no longer there. Season 5 unravels with Tiff and Emmett forging ahead as co-parents, while Tiff grows closer with her new beau Rob (Iman Shumpert).
Healing from heartbreak and betrayal from his best friend Jemma and his ex Gemma, Kevin (Alex Hibbert) finds new love in while Jake (Michael V. Epps) and Papa (Shamon Brown Jr.) try to resolve things in their own young love lives with Jemma (Judae’a Brown) and Maisha (Genesis Denise Hale).
With her baby son in tow, Kiesha (Birgundi Baker) works to build her life. Nina (Tyla Abercrumbie) and Dre (Miriam A. Hyman) work at rebuilding their union following their own scandal as they support Lynae (Zara Primer).
Jada (Yolonda Ross) assesses her life post-cancer and where Suede (Bernard Gilbert) fits in, while also exploring her deep connection with Darnell (Rolando Boyce) as he too is conflicted about his feelings for Dom (La La Anthony).
Roselyn’s (Kandi Burruss) new pet project places her at odds with Tracy (Tai Davis). Douda lurks around not too far behind (Curtiss Cook) with a helping hand from Shaad (Jason Weaver). Trig (Luke James) is also considering a political run that might help his city, but at what cost to him and his family?
There’s one noticeably absent character
One beloved character who is not returning is Jasmine Davis, who made history and an impact on being a trans woman both on and off camera. Davis starred as Imani, Trig’s love interest and parental figure to Jake. But ahead of the trailer’s release, Davis explained her exit.
“Due to the many inquiries I’m officially announcing I will not be part in Season 5 of @SHOTheChi and I will no longer be part of #thechi/#disneyproduction,” the actress tweeted. “Sending a BIG THANKS to all my family and supporters/fans who have embraced me with <3 along this journey” she wrote in a tweet.
Davis’ departure is a bit evasive but does mention Disney’s involvement. The company has had stark opposition in light of their initial passive approach to Florida’s Don’t Say Gay Bill. Disney owns the studio behind The Chi, 20th Television.
