SJGC’s “Grads Are Back” event outside of the building. (SJGC)
This year’s homecoming served as one to remember as FAMU’s School of Journalism dominated a week of events. In addition to the annual “Grads Are Back” celebration, some celebrities decided to stop by and talk to the school’s media organizations. Alex Hibbert and Shamon Brown Jr, stars of the hit tv show “The CHI” made a special appearance to 90.5 the Flava station to talk experience, representation and the ending of “The CHI.”
Hibbert and Brown Jr. sat down with third year journalism student Trinity and Olivier and fourth year journalism student Johnathan Charles to talk about the importance of young black representation in the media and their experience with “The CHI.”
“It all worked out because the time we were doing the pilot, so its not guaranteed that it’s gonna be picked up for however much seasons that we were now on,” Hibbert said. “But, you know, we took that risk and it turned out to be one of the greatest things I’ve ever did in my life.”
Both Hibbert and Brown Jr started the series well in their youth being 12 and 13, and now nearing almost a decade since their auditions they reminisce about the start.
“I know what drew me to it was the authenticity of it,” said Brown Jr. “Knowing I could add my comedic timing and personality into the role,”
Hibbert and Brown Jr. serve as role models to the younger generation through their characters on TV. Their positions leave them with the ability to inspire and shape other young black media professionals.
“Though there’s challenges the people above us have challenges as well,” Hibbert said. “So as long as we understand that and understand our community and who we are and stay connected, we’ll be as powerful as possible.”
“The CHI” is coming to a close as filming will start soon for their eighth and final season. They have been honored of being the longest running black TV show so naturally it’s time for the characters as well as the people behind them to start new journeys.
“It’s a blessing. We had a lot of dope people on there and it’s the start of a lot of people’s careers you know,” Brown Jr. said. “I can’t wait to see what everybody does next, and what they got coming up.”
