Fri Jul 18 04:00:00 UTC 2025: ## “The Chi” Hits Record Viewership, Solidifies Legacy as Longest-Running Black Drama on Premium Cable
**Los Angeles, CA -** Showtime’s “The Chi,” created by Lena Waithe, is experiencing a surge in popularity, marking significant milestones in both viewership and representation. The midseason episode of Season 7 garnered 1.78 million cross-platform viewers within three days, a 23% increase from the season average. The network also reports that it’s the most-streamed episode in series history.
This surge in viewership demonstrates the show’s growing momentum. The Season 7 premiere drew 2 million viewers in its first seven days.
“The Chi,” set on Chicago’s South Side, was recently renewed for an eighth season, set to air in May 2025.
The series, known for its authentic portrayal of Black life and community, recently surpassed “Soul Food” as the longest-running Black drama on premium cable, airing its 75th episode on July 13th. “Soul Food” ran for 74 episodes between 2000 and 2004.
“The Chi” stars Jacob Latimore, Lynn Whitfield, Yolonda Ross, Shamon Brown Jr., Michael V. Epps, Birgundi Baker, and Luke James.
First Piper 