Hit Showtime TV Show Ending With Season 8, Creator Issues Statement

Four months after Lena Waithe‘s The Chi scored a renewal order from Showtime, it has now been confirmed that the popular drama will officially be concluding its run with the upcoming eighth season. The Chi is one of the second-longest-running shows in the premium network’s history. It’s currently tied with Dexter, Homeland, and Weeds, which all lasted for eight seasons as well.

What did Lena Waithe say about The Chi ending its Showtime run?

In her statement, Waithe confirmed that it was actually the creative team’s decision to end The Chi with the eighth season, promising fans that they’ll deliver a satisfying final season.

“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 said. “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.”

In addition, Waithe also expressed how grateful she is to have the honor of spearheading the longest-running Black drama on premium cable or streaming.

“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,” She continued. “To helm the longest-running Black drama on television is a huge honor, and it’s something I don’t take lightly. I’m deeply grateful to every single person who helped build this world — our writers, actors, and crew who give so much of themselves to make this show what it is. As for what the future holds, I still plan on telling stories, continuing to build community, and making space for us all to be seen.”

The Chi is a timely coming-of-age story centering on a group of residents who become linked by coincidence but bonded by the need for connection and redemption. It is created and executive-produced by Waithe. The ensemble cast features Jacob Latimore, Lynn Whitfield, Yolonda Ross, Shamon Brown Jr., Michael V. Epps, Birgundi Baker, Luke James, Kadeem Hardison, Chris Lee, Brett Gray, Rotimi, Jackie Long, Charmin Lee, Jill Marie Jones, Daniel J. Watts, and more.