“The Chi” Names Justin Hillian New Showrunner; Welcomes Luke James, La La Anthony, And Lil Rel Howry For Season 3

Production for season three of Showtime’s “The Chi” has begun with a new showrunner and executive producer. 

Writer Justin Hillian of the hit FX show “Snowfall” will run the upcoming third season, replacing Ayanna Floyd Davis.

In addition to the changes behind the scenes, Birgundi Baker, who plays Kiesha, will now be a series regular, and Luke James, La La Anthony, and Lil Rel Howery have signed on for recurring roles.

James will recur as Victor “Trig” Taylor, Jake’s (Michael V. Epps) estranged older brother who wants to reunite his broken family but takes an unconventional approach. Anthony will play Dominique “Dom” Morris, a savvy businesswoman with dreams of more lucrative opportunities. Howery will portray Zeke Remnick, the owner of Sonny’s building, according to Deadline.

The change in showrunner follows the exit of Jason Mitchell, one of the series’ leads, who was let go in May over allegations of inappropriate behavior. Floyd previously issued a statement that producer and creator Lena Waithe was aware of complaints against Mitchell during the show’s very first season; however, he was still written in to return for the show’s second and third season. 

Mitchell was cut after Season 2 wrapped.