Homegrown & Back Again: 'The Chi' Celebrates Season 7

Members of “The Chi” cast (l-r) Genesis Denise Hale, Ahmad Ferguson, Michael V. Epps, Cortez Smith, and Zaria Primer, address the Chicago crowd at the Harold Washington Cultural Center in the heart of Bronzeville. Photos: Israeal Wilson

“The Chi” recently released their first episode of season 7 and hosted a watch party in the heart of Bronzeville at the Harold Washington Cultural Center.

At the event, Chicago’s own “Chi” actors were celebrated, as we watched their hard work be put on the screen for hundreds to see. The actors in the spotlight were Micheal V. Epps who plays Jake, Cortez Smith, aka “Nuck”, Zaria Primer who plays Lynae, Genesis Hale, aka Maisha, and Ahmad Ferguson who plays Bakari.

I can’t overstate the fun that was had during the watch party, not to mention the after party. There would be other premiers in other cities like LA or New York, but having it here in Chicago felt like home for the actors. “I appreciate everybody coming out,” said Epps.

The environment was so rich, I genuinely loved being around these powerful young artists showcasing their talents. During the event, a speaker came up and said, “We’re using our history, heritage and culture to change our community.” He referred to this moment in time as cultural development, which made the gathering feel very progressive.

Everybody there was melanated and genuinely happy to see these actors succeed, being there reminded every creative in the room the benefits of hard work. The pure positivity kicked off a summer full of Black joy and creative expression. It was a nice parallel to the episode actually because the first episode of season seven was grimy.

Keisha Johnson of Destined Inc., who created this event, poses with her son Epps, and actors Primer and Hale.

The show is bigger than ever and the actors are really giving their all by showing the complex emotions of these characters. Of course the episode showed the beauty of the city, so the watch experience was top tier.

If you haven’t checked out the new season, do yourself a favor and throw it on tonight. It would support not only Chicago, but all the young Black creatives that worked hard to get season 7 done.

By Gary Langfield Jr.

Instagram: @ima_menace21

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