On this episode of The Latest with Loren LoRosa, Loren sits down with actor Jason Weaver for an unforgettable conversation about the final season of The Chi, growing up in Chicago, and the power of authentic Black storytelling.

Jason reflects on starting his entertainment career at just five years old, how his mother helped guide him through the industry, and why portraying “Shad” on The Chi has become one of the most meaningful roles of his career. From discussions about masculinity, healing, incarceration, and LGBTQ+ representation to the beauty and complexity of Chicago’s Black communities, this conversation goes far beyond television.

The two also dive into:

• Why The Chi resonates so deeply with audiences
• The responsibility of telling real stories about Black communities
• How the show helped spark difficult but necessary conversations
• Jason’s emotional fan encounters in Chicago
• His bond with Luke James on and off screen
• Why independent Black storytelling matters now more than ever